worse for wear
1
used to describe someone who is really tired after an exhaustive physical activity
The idiom "worse for wear" has its origins in the 19th century and was originally used to describe physical objects that had deteriorated or become damaged due to wear and tear. The phrase now means to be in a weakened or damaged state, often due to age, illness, or overuse. The phrase "worse for wear" is often used to describe people or things that are showing signs of wear and tear or have been damaged over time.
- If you don't take care of yourself, you will be feeling worse for wear in the morning.
- She is feeling worse for wear after staying up all night to finish a project.
- The car was looking worse for wear after being in a collision.
- The old couch is looking worse for wear after years of use.
- They have been through a lot and are looking worse for wear, but they are still determined to keep going.
2
in a very bad physical condition due to being used for an extended period of time
The idiom "worse for wear" originated in the 19th century and is derived from the idea of an object or person showing signs of deterioration or damage after prolonged use or wear. The phrase is used to describe something or someone that is in a poor or deteriorated physical condition due to extensive or prolonged use, often implying that the item or individual has experienced a significant amount of wear and tear, resulting in a diminished state or appearance.
- After hiking through the rugged terrain, my shoes were worse for wear, with worn-out soles and tattered laces.
- The antique book had been passed down through generations and was now worse for wear, with faded pages and a fragile spine.
- He returned from the intense workout at the gym, drenched in sweat and worse for wear, feeling utterly exhausted.
- The car had been driven for thousands of miles without proper maintenance and was now worse for wear, with engine troubles and a worn-out suspension.
- The old wooden chair had served its purpose for decades but was now worse for wear, with chipped paint and a wobbly frame.