Definition

The condition of being worn out or shabby, especially in reference to fabric or clothing that has become thin and frayed due to use.

Example

The old sofa showed signs of threadbareness, with its fabric worn and faded.

Conversation

Have you noticed the threadbareness of that old sofa in the living room?

Yeah, it really needs to be replaced soon.

I can't believe how fast it got to that state of threadbareness.

I know! We should definitely look for a new one.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Threadbareness → The word is formed from "thread" (from Old English *þræd*, meaning a long, thin strand) and "bareness" (from Old English *beara*, meaning lack or absence). The term describes a state of lacking threads or strands, implying a sense of emptiness or deficiency in texture or material.

Memory Tip

Think of 'thread' as a long, thin strand and 'bareness' as a lack of something. This helps you remember that 'threadbareness' refers to a lack of threads or strands.

Visually Confused Words