The word "careworn" is spelled with a combination of letters that might cause confusion among English language learners. The initial "c" is followed by the letter "a," which is pronounced as [ɛɪ]. The next syllable is marked by the letter "r," followed by the long vowel sound "e," pronounced [ɔ:]. The third syllable contains the letter "w," which is pronounced as [w], and the letters "o" and "r," pronounced as [ɔr]. The last two letters, "n" and "n," are pronounced with a nasal sound, represented by [n]. Overall, the IPA transcription of "careworn" is [ˈkɛəwɔːn].
Careworn, an adjective, describes a person or face that displays the marks of worry, distress, or fatigue. The term is used to convey a visible weariness or the impact of age, stress, or hardship on an individual's appearance or countenance. Often, careworn individuals appear older than their years due to the constant burden of concern they bear.
When someone is careworn, the lines on their face may be etched deeper, and their eyes may exhibit a weary, far-off gaze. The furrows on their brow can reflect the weight of responsibilities or the strain caused by enduring difficult circumstances. Over time, this wear and tear can age a person prematurely.
Typically, the term careworn conveys a sense of vulnerability or fragility, highlighting the hardships and emotional toll that someone has experienced. It suggests a person who has undergone an arduous journey or faced numerous obstacles. Nevertheless, careworn individuals often possess an inner strength and resilience that enables them to persevere in the face of adversity.
In literature, careworn characters are commonly found in stories that explore themes of trials, tribulations, and the human condition. The word evokes empathy and compassion for those who have faced life's challenges and highlights the impact of the human experience on a person's appearance.
Crushed with care; fatigued with anxiety; to take care, also have a care, be careful; take heed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "careworn" is derived from Middle English, particularly the term "careweirie", which was a compound of "care" meaning "worry" or "anxiety" and "weirie" meaning "weariness". Over time, "careweirie" evolved into "careworn" in Modern English. The term combines the idea of being burdened with cares or worries, while also conveying a sense of exhaustion or weariness due to the cumulative effects of those cares.