# fretted

/ˈfɹɛtɪd/ (US) · /fɹˈɛtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fretted
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

to worry about something for a long time, going over it again and again in your mind. You use this when someone cannot relax because of a problem.

For teachers: to experience persistent anxiety or worry about something, often with visible restlessness.

## Examples

- She fretted about the exam all night.
- He fretted over his mother's test results while waiting for the doctor to call.
- After sending the application, she fretted for weeks, replaying every interview answer and imagining how it could have gone better.

## Usage notes

- Typically followed by 'about', 'over', or 'for' to name the cause of worry.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.