Frayed

In a literal sense, 'frayed' describes something, typically fabric or a rope, whose threads or fibers have come undone or worn away, leading to a ragged or unravelled appearance. Figuratively, it can describe a person's emotional or physical state, indicating they are worn out, stressed, or nearing the point of collapse due to prolonged pressure or strain. It suggests a sense of vulnerability, deterioration, or becoming less strong. The word implies a loss of integrity or wholeness, whether physical or mental. It also describes the loss of hope or connections. The term portrays a situation that is nearing breaking point.

Frayed meaning with examples

• The hem of her favorite dress was frayed after years of wear and tear, showing the delicate fabric's slow decline. Despite mending it many times, the edges continued to unravel, a testament to how she cherished her dress. The fabric had simply become thin after repeated washes and wear, highlighting the dress's advanced age and the end of its usefulness.
• After months of battling the illness, her nerves were frayed, making her irritable and sensitive to noise. The constant worry had gradually worn her down, her emotional resilience severely depleted. Every minor setback chipped away at her already fragile composure, threatening her ability to function.
• The rope holding the cargo was frayed, putting the crew at extreme risk. The Captain was extremely concerned. Every strand that gave way made their load increasingly unstable. They had to act quickly, knowing the whole system was close to failure, creating a dangerous situation for everyone.
• His patience, after dealing with the endless complaints, was completely frayed. The constant nagging had created a hostile work environment. His capacity to listen had slowly diminished, turning him from a calming presence into a volatile manager, which threatened the success of the project.
• The threads of their relationship were severely frayed by the distance and the lack of communication. Years of neglect had taken their toll. Small disagreements had gradually become bigger, threatening to unravel their long shared history, and jeopardizing their family ties.