Word
worn
US/ˈwɔɹn/
UK/wˈɔːn/
Definitions
01damaged by use
A2 · Elementary
adj. damaged, thin, or shabby because it has been used a lot.
adj. showing signs of significant wear, attrition, or long-term use; often implies a loss of quality or structural integrity.
“He had to replace his favorite boots because the soles were completely worn.”
“The stairs in the old library were deeply worn in the center, testifying to the generations of students who had climbed them.”
02tired or exhausted
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. looking very tired or worried, especially because of hard work or stress.
adj. appearing exhausted or fatigued, typically as a result of prolonged stress, illness, or exertion.
“After working double shifts all week, she looked pale and worn.”
“The doctor’s worn expression suggested he had not slept since the emergency cases began arriving the previous evening.”
Etymology
By analogy to past participles like torn from tear and sworn from swear.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- A2 · Elementary
- Updated
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