shopworn

the compound adjective 'shopworn' is a relatively modern english formation from the late 19th century, combining two old english elements. the literal sense derives from the physical condition of merchandise that has been on display in a shop, subjected to handling and exposure, thus becoming 'worn' or soiled. this concrete meaning was then extended metaphorically to describe ideas, jokes, or expressions that have become stale and lost their impact through excessive repetition, as if mentally 'handled' too often. the word's logic perfectly captures the transition from a physical state of goods to an abstract state of overfamiliarity.

Structure: shop + worn shop (old english, 'scoppa' – a booth or shed for trade or work; functions as a noun attributive). worn (old english, 'woren', past participle of 'werian' – to wear; functions as an adjective).