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fray

0 synonyms and 0 antonyms for fray, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Verb — To wear away at the edges through rubbing, so that threads separate.

We haven't recorded synonyms for fray yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use fray

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

fray at the edges nerves fray join the fray enter the fray

Etymology

The verb comes from Old French fraier, "to rub," from Latin fricare, "to rub." The noun sense (a fight) developed from the same root via the idea of clashing or rubbing against each other.

Full origin of fray →

Frequently asked questions

What does “fray” mean?

The word “fray” means to wear away at the edges through rubbing, so that threads separate. In plain terms, to wear thin through friction (fabric, nerves), or as a noun, a fight or conflict someone joins.

How do you pronounce “fray”?

“Fray” is pronounced fray (/fɹeɪ/ in IPA).

How do you use “fray” in a sentence?

Here is “fray” used in a sentence: “The cuffs of his jacket had begun to fray.”

What part of speech is “fray”?

Depending on how it is used, “fray” can be a verb and a noun.

Where does the word “fray” come from?

The word “fray” comes from Latin. The verb comes from Old French fraier, "to rub," from Latin fricare, "to rub." The noun sense (a fight) developed from the same root via the idea of clashing or rubbing against each other.

Is “fray” a common word?

“Fray” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “fray” have?

“Fray” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to wear away at the edges through rubbing, so that threads separate.

Related words

Nearby words

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Synonyms and antonyms from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA.