Torn Meaning and Definition
Torn
Pronunciation
/tɔrn/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A tear or rent in fabric or other material, or a figurative tear or separation in a relationship or feeling.
Examples
- The button on his shirt was torn and needed to be repaired.
- Sadly, the couple’s relationship was now torn apart by the arguments.
Synonyms
- Ripped
- Shredded
Etymology
From Old English ‘torn’, from Proto-Germanic ‘torniz’, from Proto-Indo-European ‘tero’, to tear.
Usage Notes
The word ‘torn’ can be used literally, describing a physical tear in fabric or other materials, or figuratively to describe a emotional or psychological separation.
Cultural References
In popular culture, the phrase ‘torn pages’ is often used to describe a situation where someone is trying to choose between two options or feelings.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To be torn between two desires
- To have a torn heart
Related Words or Phrases
- Tear
- Rent
- Separate
Collocations
- A torn page
- A torn fabric
- A torn heart
Frequency of Use
The word ‘torn’ is commonly used in everyday language, especially in figurative contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Torne
- Tourn