The phrase "make ragged" is spelled using the phonetic transcription [meɪk ˈræɡɪd]. The first part, "make," is pronounced with a long "a" sound as in "ray" [meɪk]. The second part, "ragged," uses a short "a" sound as in "cat" [ˈræɡɪd]. The "g" in "ragged" is pronounced as a hard sound [ɡ], and the word ends with the "ed" sound [ɪd]. Overall, the spelling of "make ragged" reflects the sounds of the individual syllables and the phonetic rules of English.
The phrase "make ragged" refers to the act or process of causing something to become torn, tattered, or frayed, typically resulting in a worn-out or shabby appearance. This expression emphasizes the action of creating raggedness or disheveled state.
When used in relation to fabric or clothing, "make ragged" implies the deliberate or unintentional tearing or shredding of the material, often resulting from excessive use, rough handling, or aging. This can lead to the development of frayed edges, holes, or other signs of wear and tear, thereby giving the fabric a ragged or worn-out appearance. For example, if a rough surface or sharp object continuously rubs against a fabric, it can make it ragged over time.
The phrase can also be used metaphorically to describe the effect of continuous or excessive use on non-material objects or abstract concepts. For instance, a person's frequent and intense emotional experiences may make their nerves ragged. Similarly, an excessive workload or constant stress can make one's mental or physical state ragged, leading to exhaustion, burnout, or a decline in overall well-being.
In general, "make ragged" entails causing deterioration, an unpolished or shabby look, or a state of disarray in various contexts, whether physical, emotional, or otherwise. The phrase emphasizes the transformation of something from a well-maintained or pristine condition to a worn, damaged, or unkempt state.
The phrase "make ragged" doesn't have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of two words, each with its own etymology:
1. Make: This word originated from the Old English word "macian" which means "to arrange, construct, or prepare". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "makōną". Over time, "macian" evolved to "make" in Middle English.
2. Ragged: This word came from the Old English word "ræg", which means "a piece of cloth". The word "ragged" refers to something that is torn, tattered, or in a state of disrepair. It evolved from "ræg" in Middle English.
When combined, "make ragged" means to create or cause something to become torn or tattered.