well-worn
UK: ˌwel ˈwɔːn | US: ˌwel ˈwɔːrn
adj. (of an object) showing signs of extensive use or wear; worn out by frequent handling or age.
adj. (of a phrase, idea, etc.) overused to the point of being unoriginal or clichéd.
The compound "well-worn" combines "well" (Old English wel, meaning "thoroughly" or "fully") with "worn" (past participle of "wear," from Old English werian, meaning "to carry or have on the body"). The term originally described physical objects visibly aged by use (e.g., "well-worn shoes"). By the 19th century, it extended metaphorically to describe ideas or phrases exhausted by overuse, reflecting their "wear" through repetition. The logic mirrors the physical→abstract progression seen in words like "threadbare."
The well-worn pages of her favorite book hinted at years of rereading.
His speech relied on well-worn clichés that failed to inspire the audience.
A pair of well-worn jeans often feels more comfortable than new ones.
The phrase "think outside the box" has become well-worn in business meetings.
The antique shop specialized in well-worn furniture with visible history.