Fret
Verb
Definition: To feel or express worry or irritation.
Definition: To cause wear or erosion by rubbing or gnawing.
Synonyms: Worry, Be concerned, Be irritated, Vex, Irritate
Antonyms: Calm, Soothe, Relax
Examples:
- She frets about her exams constantly.
- The constant rubbing fretted the wood, causing it to deteriorate.
Mnemonics:
- Imagine a person nervously tapping their foot, as if they were fretting about something.
- Think of the word "frustrate" which has a similar meaning to fret.
Etymology:
Origin:
Old English 'fretan', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'vreten'.
Historical Usage:The word has been used since Old English times, evolving from the meaning of "eat" to "gnaw" and finally to its current meanings.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Fret your heart out"
Explanation:To worry excessively or feel great anxiety.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing "fret" with "freight".
Explanation:"Fret" refers to worry or irritation, while "freight" refers to the transportation of goods or cargo. They are unrelated in meaning.