Fray: meaning, definitions and examples

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fray

 

[ freɪ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

in a battle

A fray refers to a noisy fight or battle, typically involving several people. It is a chaotic and violent situation where individuals are engaged in physical combat.

Synonyms

battle, melee, scuffle

Examples of usage

  • The soldiers were in the midst of a fierce fray against the enemy forces.
  • The protesters and the police were caught in a violent fray during the demonstration.
Context #2 | Verb

to unravel

To fray means to unravel or become worn at the edge, typically referring to fabric or rope. It is the process of threads coming loose from the main material.

Synonyms

deteriorate, unravel, wear out

Examples of usage

  • The old carpet had started to fray at the corners.
  • The hem of her dress began to fray after repeated use.

Translations

Translations of the word "fray" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desgastar

🇮🇳 घिसना

🇩🇪 abnutzen

🇮🇩 ausir

🇺🇦 зношуватися

🇵🇱 zużyć

🇯🇵 すり減る (すりへる)

🇫🇷 user

🇪🇸 desgastar

🇹🇷 aşındırmak

🇰🇷 닳다

🇸🇦 يبلى

🇨🇿 opotřebovat

🇸🇰 opotrebovať

🇨🇳 磨损 (mósǔn)

🇸🇮 obrabiti se

🇮🇸 slitna

🇰🇿 тозу

🇬🇪 ცვლა

🇦🇿 aşınmaq

🇲🇽 desgastar

Etymology

The word 'fray' originated from the Middle English word 'freien' meaning 'to make afraid' or 'to assail'. Over time, it evolved to represent a noisy fight or battle. The verb sense of 'fray' in the context of unraveling comes from the Old French word 'fraier', meaning 'to rub'.

See also: frayed.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,279, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.