The phrase "become ragged" is spelled with a silent "b" at the beginning of "become" and a "gg" in "ragged" to show the hard "g" sound. The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription for "become" is bɪˈkʌm, with the stressed syllable on the second syllable. The IPA transcription for "ragged" is ˈræɡɪd with the stressed syllable on the first syllable and the "dd" in the spelling represented by a single "g" in the transcription. The phrase means to become worn or frayed, typically in clothing or fabric.
The phrase "become ragged" refers to a gradual or sudden change in the state or appearance of something, particularly in relation to clothing, material, or any object that is susceptible to wear and tear. When an item becomes ragged, it means that it becomes frayed, torn, or worn out due to extensive use or improper maintenance.
The term "ragged" specifically denotes a state of being in a tattered or dilapidated condition. This can manifest in various forms, such as visible tears, holes, or loose threads in fabric; shabby or faded appearance; or a general deterioration of an object's original structure or texture. Whether it is clothing, upholstery, or even books, anything can become ragged over time.
When an item becomes ragged, it often signifies that it has reached the end of its useful life or has undergone significant wear and tear. This term can also be used metaphorically to describe people or situations that have deteriorated or become shabby or disheveled in appearance or performance.
To summarize, "become ragged" describes the process by which an object or material gradually deteriorates, acquiring the attributes of being frayed, torn, or worn out. It implies a state of disrepair or decline, both literally and metaphorically, and is commonly associated with the shabby or untidy appearance of clothing, fabric, or other items.
The etymology of the phrase "become ragged" can be understood by examining the roots of its components:
1. "Become": The word "become" traces back to the Old English term "becuman", which was a combination of "be-" (meaning "to be, to exist") and "cuman" (meaning "to come"). Over time, this developed into the Middle English word "becomen", eventually becoming the modern English "become". It implies a change or a transition from one state to another.
2. "Ragged": The term "ragged" originated from the Middle English word "ragget" or "raggen", which meant "to wear away by rough usage" or "to tear into irregular pieces". This word was derived from the Old Norse term "ragg", meaning "shaggy hair" or "tuft of hair".