fray
UK: freɪ | US: freɪ
n. 1. A noisy fight or quarrel; a brawl.
n. 2. A frayed or worn condition (e.g., fabric).
vt. 1. To cause (fabric, rope, etc.) to unravel or wear at the edge.
vi. 1. To become worn or ragged at the edge.
No data yet.
The word "fray" traces back to the Latin fricare, meaning "to rub," which evolved into Old French freier with the same sense. In English, it initially described the physical wearing down of materials (e.g., fabric) through friction. Over time, it metaphorically extended to describe conflicts or quarrels, evoking the image of tensions "rubbing" people raw. The dual meanings—physical wear and chaotic fights—highlight the word’s vivid connection to friction in both literal and figurative contexts.
The edges of the old flag began to fray after years of use.
Tempers flared, and the debate turned into a verbal fray.
Constant rubbing caused the rope to fray dangerously.
The politician avoided the media fray after the scandal.
Her patience started to fray after hours of waiting.