Definition

Describing someone who looks tired or worried because of stress or sadness.

Example

After weeks of sleepless nights, she had a careworn expression on her face.

Conversation

You look a bit careworn today, everything okay?

Yeah, just a lot on my mind lately, you know?

I understand, sometimes life can be really overwhelming.

Definitely, but talking about it helps a lot.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Careworn → The word is formed from "care" (from Old English *caru*, meaning grief or anxiety) and "worn" (from Old English *werian*, meaning to wear or to be worn out). The term describes someone who appears worn out or tired due to the burden of worry or anxiety.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is burdened by 'grief' ('care') and looks 'worn out' — that's why careworn describes someone who looks tired from worry.

Visually Confused Words