Fret

To fret means to be constantly or visibly worried or anxious, often about something trivial. It can also mean to cause worry, irritation, or annoyance. The term implies a state of emotional distress, often characterized by nervous tension and a preoccupation with potential problems. It involves dwelling on negative possibilities and can manifest physically through restless behavior or mental agitation. Essentially, fretting is allowing anxieties to consume your thoughts and actions, leading to a state of unease and apprehension about a situation or future outcome. This can disrupt peace of mind.

Fret meaning with examples

• She began to fret about the upcoming exam, replaying every question in her mind. She paced her room, unable to relax, the thought of failure consuming her. Her constant worrying made it difficult to concentrate on studying. She wished she could stop the **fretting** and trust her preparation.
• The stormy weather caused the sailors to fret about their safety, watching the waves crash against the hull. The captain tried to reassure the crew but everyone could feel their anxiousness. Their unease grew with each passing hour. Their minds constantly replayed the worst possibilities.
• He started to fret over his finances, constantly checking his bank balance. The recent unexpected expenses created this situation and he was finding it hard to sleep at night. The feeling of insecurity followed him wherever he went, causing him to be short-tempered.
• She would fret over the small details of the party, worrying that everything was perfect. The cake, decorations and guest list absorbed all her thoughts. Her relentless focus prevented her from enjoying the present moment.
• The unexpected delay in the delivery caused the manager to fret, impacting all his plans. The team tried to manage the situation, but their efforts were undermined by the anxiety. His team’s stress became another source of this worry.