frayed 1 of 2

adjective

ˈfrād How to pronounce frayed (audio)
Definition of frayednext
as in tattered
worn or torn into or as if into rags she wore a beloved but badly frayed flannel shirt

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

frayed

2 of 2

verb

past tense of fray
as in eroded
to damage or diminish by continued friction constant rubbing against the rock face has badly frayed our climbing rope

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of frayed
Adjective
The memento, sourced from a Salvation Army, does show some signs of use in the film, including staining, frayed fringe, and some loose threads. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 24 June 2026 The post-World War II liberal consensus is badly frayed and may well implode. — Wendell Wallach, Hartford Courant, 25 June 2026
Verb
The traditional political alliances are frayed, at best, with socialists backing a billionaire and Trump supporting an immigrant. — Philip Elliott, Time, 30 May 2026 Trump’s posturing underscored how his alliance with Meloni — long seen as one of his closest friends in Europe — has frayed over his war in Iran, his tariffs against Europe and his complaints when anyone disagrees with him. — Nicole Winfield, Fortune, 20 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for frayed
Recent Examples of Synonyms for frayed
  1. tattered
  2. eroded
  3. ragged
  4. wore
  5. faded
Adjective
  • There was a phone book, camera film canisters, metal pins, the tattered remains of a baseball cap and an orange t-shirt with the outline of a giant thumbs up.
    — Rylan DiGiacomo-Rapp, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 June 2026
  • His main challenge will be to overcome Starmer's inability to deliver promised economic growth, repair tattered public services and ease the cost of living.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 27 June 2026
Definition of tattered
Verb
  • Fierce domestic competition has eroded its footprint in China, one of its most important markets.
    — Andrew Staples, Fortune, 3 July 2026
  • Moscow says the strike was retaliation for Ukraine’s 40-day campaign on Russian oil refineries and supply lines, which has fueled shortages, hit Crimea and eroded battlefield momentum.
    — Hanna Arhirova, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
Definition of eroded
Adjective
  • This leaves ragged and bruised leaf tips behind that quickly turn brown and are more susceptible to disease.
    — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 25 June 2026
  • His hushed, ragged whisper feels suitably weathered, fitting a collection of songs that never are in a hurry.
    — Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Pitchfork, 22 June 2026
Definition of ragged
Verb
  • French President Emmanuel Macron wore a pair of aviator sunglasses indoors again.
    — Jamie Gray, NBC news, 9 July 2026
  • While visiting Evelina London Children’s Hospital, the princess wore a breezy white shirt dress cinched with a black waist belt and finished with classic kitten heels.
    — Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 8 July 2026
Definition of wore
Adjective
  • Eric_Lynxweiler | Courtesy of Latinos in Heritage Conservation The Silver Platter, with its faded crimson awning along a stretch in Los Angeles’ Westlake District, doesn’t look like much from the outside.
    — R. Daniel Foster, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026
  • The faded fabric, buttery-soft cotton, and contrast-trim neckline lend it a vintage vibe that won’t look out of place when paired with more contemporary pieces.
    — Irene Richardson, InStyle, 28 June 2026
Definition of faded

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Cite this Entry

“Frayed.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/frayed. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on frayed

Nglish: Translation of frayed for Spanish Speakers

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