FRAYED Synonyms: 72 Similar and Opposite Words

frayed 1 of 2

adjective

ˈfrād

Definition of frayed

as in tattered

worn or torn into or as if into rags she wore a beloved but badly frayed flannel shirt

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

frayed

2 of 2

verb

past tense of fray

as in eroded

to damage or diminish by continued friction constant rubbing against the rock face has badly frayed our climbing rope

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of frayed

Adjective

Vacuum the rug, being careful to avoid edges and frayed areas. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 5 July 2026 The post-World War II liberal consensus is badly frayed and may well implode. — Wendell Wallach, Hartford Courant, 25 June 2026

Verb

The June 17 memorandum of understanding opened a 60-day negotiating period over the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions and Iran's nuclear and missile programs, but frayed within weeks as Iranian attacks on shipping prompted escalation. — Emma Graham, CNBC, 1 Aug. 2026 Natalia drew the stalk with a slender white base and the tubular green leaves that frayed on top. — Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for frayed

Recent Examples of Synonyms for frayed

Adjective

The ferocious character also features shaggy black-and-orange hair that matches his tattered pants, and a large necklace adorned with teeth.

— Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 30 July 2026
The trailer finds the film’s protagonists alternately hunting or fleeing the vicious creature — or creatures — through a tattered town known as Hope Harbor, a remote coastal village near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in South Korea.

— Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 9 July 2026

Definition of tattered

Adjective

Typically depicted with exaggerated features and ragged clothing – or no clothing at all – these children were often shown being chased by alligators or other wild animals.

— The Conversation, The Conversation, 11 Aug. 2026
Sharpen Mower Blades Dull blades create a ragged leaf edge, which is the ideal entry point for diseases.

— Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Aug. 2026

Definition of ragged

Adjective

Today, Tskaltubo's grand architecture stands as a testament to its faded glory—the sweeping arcs, decorative motifs, and faded murals all reminiscent of its once poignant beauty.

— Kieron Marchese, Architectural Digest, 27 July 2026
Learn how to stain a fence the right way to protect a new wood fence or enhance a faded fence.

— Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 July 2026

Definition of faded

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“Frayed.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/frayed. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of frayed

adjective

verb

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