worn

/wɔ:n/

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Explanation of the Word "Worn"

Part of Speech: Adjective

Usage Instructions

When using "worn," you can describe both physical objects and people. It often conveys a sense of being used up or affected by time, hard work, or emotional stress.

Examples

1. Describing Objects:

   • "My shoes are very worn; they have holes in the soles."
   • "She wore a beautiful but worn dress that had been in her family for years."

2. Describing People:

   • "After a long week of work, he had a worn look on his face."
   • "The worn expression of the teacher showed how much effort she put into helping her students."

Advanced Usage

• Worn Out: This phrase means extremely tired or exhausted, either physically or mentally.

  • Example: "After running the marathon, I felt completely worn out."

• Worn Down: This phrase can mean to be exhausted from continuous effort or pressure.

  • Example: "She felt worn down by the constant stress of her job."

Word Variants

• Wear (verb): To use something until it becomes worn.
  • Example: "I wear my favorite jacket every day."
• Weariness (noun): The state of being tired or exhausted.
  • Example: "His weariness was evident after the long journey."

Different Meanings

• While "worn" primarily describes something that is used and damaged, it can also refer to emotional or psychological states, indicating someone who looks fatigued or burdened.

Synonyms

• Used: Indicates something that has been employed or utilized.
• Tired: Often used to describe fatigue in people.
• Shabby: Refers to something that is worn out and in poor condition.
• Faded: Can describe colors that have lost their brightness due to wear or age.

Idioms

• Worn thin: This phrase means that patience or tolerance is running out.
  • Example: "Her excuses have worn thin; I need a real answer."

Phrasal Verbs

• Wear away: To gradually become less or disappear due to continuous use or pressure.
  • Example: "The stone steps have worn away over the years."

Conclusion

"Worn" is a versatile word that can describe both physical objects and the emotional state of individuals. It often conveys a sense of history or experience, showing how things or people have been affected by time and use.

Academic

Adjective

1. showing the wearing effects of overwork or care or suffering
   • looking careworn as she bent over her mending
   • her face was drawn and haggard from sleeplessness
   • that raddled but still noble face
   • shocked to see the worn look of his handsome young face- Charles Dickens
2. affected by wear; damaged by long use
   • worn threads on the screw
   • a worn suit
   • the worn pockets on the jacket

Synonyms

• careworn
• drawn
• haggard
• raddled