Definition

Worn out or damaged, especially referring to clothing that is torn or in bad condition.

Example

He wore a tattered coat that had seen better days.

Conversation

Have you seen that old book in the library?

Yeah, it's really tattered but still interesting.

I wonder how many people have read it over the years.

Probably a lot! It's amazing how stories can endure through tattered pages.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tattered → It is formed from "tatter" (from Middle English *tatteren*, meaning to tear or rip) and the suffix "-ed" (indicating a past participle). The word "tattered" describes something that has been torn or ripped, often referring to clothing or fabric that is in a state of disrepair.

Memory Tip

Imagine something that has been 'torn' ('tatter') and is now in a 'past' state of being damaged ('-ed'). This helps you remember that 'tattered' means something that is torn or ragged.

Visually Confused Words