wellworn

Wellworn is an adjective in English used to describe something that has been used frequently or for a long time, resulting in visible wear or a familiar, time-weathered appearance. The term can refer to tangible objects such as clothing, tools, or paths, as well as to intangible things such as arguments, phrases, or stories that have become commonplace through repetition. The usual form when placed before a noun is well-worn (hyphenated), for example a well-worn jacket or a well-worn path. In predicative use after a linking verb, the form well worn (two words) is also encountered, as in the path is well worn.

Etymology traces well-worn to well (adverb) and worn (past participle of wear). The phrase conveys both literal wear from use and metaphorical overfamiliarity. It is often contrasted with terms like threadbare (more severe wear) or worn-out (no longer usable) and with newer or pristine states.

Usage notes: well-worn often carries a neutral or affectionate connotation, suggesting reliability or character rather than neglect. In literary or descriptive writing, it can evoke a sense of history or tradition and can be deployed to emphasize mood or ambiance.

See also: cliché, threadbare, worn-out, patina, usage.