tatter — torn pieces of cloth, paper, or other material hanging loosely
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: torn pieces of cloth, paper, or other material hanging loosely
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈtætər/
Example Sentences
- After the zombie apocalypse movie marathon, my emotions were in tatters, but my popcorn bowl was perfectly clean.
- The old book's pages had begun to tatter from years of use.
- His excuse was so bad it left his credibility in tatters, unlike his perfectly ironed shirt.
tatter
NOUN[/ˈtætər/]
torn pieces of cloth, paper, or other material hanging loosely
Torn fabric strips hanging loosely
When flags hang in tatter, they scatter like any other matter
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Old Norse töturr, attested from the 14th century, meaning 'rag' or 'torn cloth'. The term was used by Vikings to describe tattered sails during voyages and entered English through contact with Norse seafarers.
Breakdown
töturr (Old Norse root meaning 'rag' or 'torn cloth'). The English form tatter likely developed through metathesis and sound changes during the transition from Old Norse into Middle English.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“After the zombie apocalypse movie marathon, my emotions were in tatters, but my popcorn bowl was perfectly clean.”
“The old book's pages had begun to tatter from years of use.”
“His excuse was so bad it left his credibility in tatters, unlike his perfectly ironed shirt.”
“The storm left the camping tent in tatters.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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