threadbare Definition
- 1worn to the extent that the warp and weft show through, or having the nap worn off
- 2used so often that it is no longer interesting or effective
Using threadbare: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "threadbare" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The threadbare carpet needed to be replaced.
Example
His threadbare jacket was full of holes.
Example
The threadbare plot of the movie failed to impress the audience.
Example
The book was filled with threadbare cliches.
Example
The threadbare excuse did not convince anyone.
threadbare Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with threadbare
an argument that has been used so often that it is no longer effective
Example
His threadbare argument failed to convince the jury.
a carpet that is worn to the extent that the warp and weft show through
Example
The threadbare carpet in the living room needed to be replaced.
a jacket that is worn to the extent that the nap is worn off and the fabric is thin
Example
He wore a threadbare jacket that had seen better days.
Origins of threadbare
from Old English 'thræd' meaning 'thread' and 'bær' meaning 'bare'
Summary: threadbare in Brief
The term 'threadbare' [thred-bair] refers to something that is worn to the extent that the warp and weft show through, or having the nap worn off. It can also refer to something that is used so often that it is no longer interesting or effective. Examples include 'The threadbare carpet needed to be replaced.' and 'The book was filled with threadbare cliches.'
