English Dictionary

BROKEN-DOWN

Pronunciation (US): Play  (GB): Play

IPA (US): 

 Dictionary entry overview: What does broken-down mean? 

BROKEN-DOWN (adjective)
  The adjective BROKEN-DOWN has 2 senses:

1. in deplorable conditionplay

2. not in working orderplay

  Familiarity information: BROKEN-DOWN used as an adjective is rare.


 Dictionary entry details 


BROKEN-DOWN (adjective)


Sense 1

Meaning:

In deplorable condition

Synonyms:

bedraggled; broken-down; derelict; dilapidated; ramshackle; tatterdemalion; tumble-down

Context example:

a tumble-down shack

Similar:

damaged (harmed or injured or spoiled)


Sense 2

Meaning:

Not in working order

Context example:

a broken-down tractor fit only for children to play on

Similar:

unserviceable (not ready for service)


 Context examples 


Well, I had a talk with Marmee the other day, and told her how nervous and cross and out of sorts I felt, and she said I needed change and less care, so Hannah is to help me with the children, and I'm to see to things about the house more, and now and then have a little fun, just to keep me from getting to be a fidgety, broken-down old woman before my time.

(Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott)



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