Word of the Day: Fret
What's the story
The word "fret" is a verb that means to worry, stress, or fuss over something, often unnecessarily. People who "fret" don't just worry—they stew, overthink, and let tiny problems spiral into full-blown anxieties. It's the kind of worrying that gnaws at you, keeping you awake at night over things that may not even be that serious.
Origin
Origin of the word
"Fret" comes from Old English fretan, meaning "to devour or consume." Originally, it referred to something being worn away, much like how worry eats at your mind. Over time, it evolved to mean emotional distress, perfectly capturing the restless, nagging feeling of anxiety.
Synonyms
Synonyms for 'fret'
Similar words include worry, stress, agonize, fuss, and brood. For extra flair, try stewing, overthinking, or sweating (as in "Don't sweat the small stuff!"). Whether you're anxious over deadlines or tiny imperfections, "fret" perfectly describes that uneasy, fidgety feeling.
Usage
Sentence usage
Here's how "fret" can be used in a sentence: "Stop 'fretting' over your outfit—nobody's even going to notice that tiny stain!" "He 'fretted' about his exam results for days, even though he knew he had done well."
Extra detail
Why use the word
"Fret" adds character to the usual "worry" or "stress." It suggests a fussy, restless kind of anxiety, perfect for situations where someone is overthinking things to the point of exhaustion. Use it when you want to describe unnecessary worry with a little dramatic flair!