frazzle
UK[ˈfræz.l̩]US[ˈfræz.l̩]
v
to make someone feel extremely tired, both physically and mentally
v
to damage or wear something by using it a lot, making it look frayed or burnt
n
a state of extreme physical or nervous fatigue and exhaustion
n
the damaged or frayed condition of something
Etymology
the word 'frazzle' emerged in the late 15th century, initially meaning 'to fray' or 'to wear into tatters'. its exact origins are obscure but it is considered an expressive, likely onomatopoeic formation, possibly influenced by the sound or feel of something fraying or burning. some etymologists suggest it may be a blend of 'fray' and the now-obsolete 'fazzle', meaning 'to loose its fibers'. over time, its meaning extended metaphorically from the physical state of being frayed or burnt to describe a person's state of extreme exhaustion or nervous depletion, capturing the vivid image of being worn down to threads.
Analysis
this word is considered unsegmentable into meaningful morphemes within modern english spelling. it is likely an onomatopoeic formation or a blend.
Examples
the long hours and constant stress had completely frazzled her nerves.
the edges of the old flag were frazzled by years of exposure to wind and sun.
after dealing with the children's tantrums all day, she was at her absolute frazzle.