fret
|fret|
B2
/frɛt/
worry or wear away
Etymology
Etymology Information
'fret' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'fretan,' where 'fre-' meant 'to devour' and '-tan' meant 'to eat.'
Historical Evolution
'fretan' transformed into the Middle English word 'freten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'fret.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to devour or eat away,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'worry' and 'wear away.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a ridge on the fingerboard of a stringed instrument.
He placed his fingers on the frets to play the chord.
Synonyms
Verb 1
to be constantly or visibly worried or anxious.
She tends to fret over small details.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39