Unfrayed

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Describing a fabric or material that remains intact without any worn, unraveled, or loose threads ; indicating something preserved in its original condition without damage or deterioration
2. Referring to an item or surface that shows no signs of threadbare edges or fraying strands ; signifying an object or state maintained without any signs of wear, tear, or distress
3. Characterizing cloth or textile free from unraveling at the edges or any shredded parts ; representing a condition where the integrity and neatness remain unaffected and unspoiled

Etymology: "Unfrayed" is simply the adjective "frayed" with the negating prefix "un-" attached. "Frayed" itself comes from the Middle English "frai" or "freye," meaning to rub or wear away, which later took on the sense of threads or edges coming loose through wear. The prefix "un-" is an ancient English element meaning "not," so the combined word describes something that has not undergone that rubbing or unraveling. Because "frayed" describes the state of an edge or fiber that has worn into loose strands, "unfrayed" most often applies to cloth, rope, or a cuff that still holds its weave. The meaning extends easily to anything that has come through use or time without losing its original form, such as a reputation or a promise kept whole.

Synonyms: intact, unraveled, unworn, undamaged, neat

Antonyms: frayed, tattered, worn, ragged, damaged