tatters
tatters
UK[ˈtætəz]US[ˈtætərz]
n
Irregular pieces of old, torn, or ragged cloth
n
A state of being torn, ruined, or completely disordered
Etymology
The word 'tatters' first appears in Middle English as 'taters' or 'totters', likely of Scandinavian origin, possibly related to the Old Norse 'tǫturr', meaning 'rags' or 'tatters'. Its ultimate origin is obscure but may be imitative, suggesting the sound or action of tearing. The word has always referred to irregular, torn pieces of cloth. Over time, its meaning extended metaphorically to describe anything in a state of ruin, disrepair, or complete disorder, capturing the visual and conceptual image of something ripped into shreds.
Analysis
The word 'tatters' is a simplex word of uncertain, likely Germanic, origin. It functions as a plural noun.
Examples
The old flag hung in tatters after the storm.
After the argument, his confidence was in tatters.
She wore a dress reduced to tatters from years of hard work.