The compound adjective 'time-worn' is a transparent combination of two native English elements. The first element, 'time', originates from the Old English 'tīma', a concept fundamental to Germanic languages referring to a measured or measurable period. The second element, 'worn', derives from the Old English verb 'werian', meaning to carry or use, which evolved to specifically signify the gradual damage or alteration caused by prolonged use. The compound logically and literally describes something that has been eroded, damaged, or diminished by the mere passage of time or by use over a long period. Its meaning extends naturally from physical objects to abstract concepts like sayings or traditions, which become faded or stale through over-familiarity across time.

Structure: time (period) + worn (damaged by use) - time: From Old English 'tīma' (period, season), of Germanic origin. Functions as a noun root indicating a duration. - worn: Past participle of the verb 'wear', from Old English 'werian' (to carry, have on the body, use up). Functions as an adjective describing the state resulting from long use.