used

1 of 2

adjective

ˈyüzd 

in the phrase "used to" usually ˈyüs(t)

1

: having been used before

one of the most used quotes

: such as

a

: already exhausted for its intended purpose

a used tissue

b

: having had a previous owner : secondhand

a used car

used clothing/furniture

2

: accustomed, habituated

… showing how used he was to papers with lies on them …

—Gilbert Millstein

used

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of use entry 1

Synonyms of used

Adjective

• accustomed

Examples of used in a Sentence

Adjective

The books on this shelf are used.

my grandmother has spent her whole life on the farm and is used to working hard

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Those who did attend used umbrellas, ponchos and awnings to protect themselves from the downpour. —Jeanette Marantos, Los Angeles Times, 1 Jan. 2026

The two companies will use the biofuel UCOME, which stands for used cooking oil methyl ester, as an alternative to traditional fuels. —Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 29 Dec. 2025

Browse a selection of new and used books at Pressed LKDL, a cafe and bookstore. —Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 28 Dec. 2025

Even used party supplies like hats and headbands are perfect for decorating your New Year’s tree all over again next year. —Staff Author, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1683, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing used

• got used to
• take some getting used to
• used not to
• used to
• what it used to be

Rhymes for used

• abused
• accused
• amused
• bemused
• confused
• contused
• defused
• diffused
• disused
• effused
• enthused
• excused

Kids Definition

used

adjective

ˈyüzd 

in the phrase "

used to "

usually ˈyüs(t)

1

: employed in accomplishing something

a much used excuse

2

: that has been used

especially : secondhand sense 2a

used cars

3

: having the habit of doing or experiencing

is used to flying