Used

Definition

Used is an adjective and a verb. As an adjective, it describes something that has been employed or utilized previously, often indicating second-hand items. As a verb, it is the past tense of "use," meaning to employ or put into service for a purpose.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb (past tense and past participle)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (adjective): /juːzd/
• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /juːzd/
• Respelling: YOOZD

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (adjective): /juːzd/
• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /juːzd/
• Respelling: YOOZD

Etymology

The word "used" originates from the Middle English "usen," derived from Old French "user," and Latin "uti," meaning "to employ, enjoy, or benefit from." Its modern adjectival use developed in the context of describing previously employed items or actions.

Derivatives

• Reuse (verb)
• Usable (adjective)
• Usage (noun)
• Utilization (noun)
• Misuse (noun/verb)

Synonyms

• Second-hand (adjective)
• Pre-owned (adjective)
• Utilized (verb/adjective)

Antonyms

• New (adjective)
• Unused (adjective)
• None

Usage

The adjective "used" is commonly applied to items that have been previously employed, such as "He bought a used car." As a verb, it is the past form of "use," as in "She used her skills to solve the problem."

Related Terms

• Employ: To make use of something for a purpose.
• Second-hand: Describing items that have been owned or used previously.
• Utilize: To put something to practical use.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Previously employed or utilized: Describes items or objects that have been in prior use.
  • Example: "The store specializes in selling used books."
• Accustomed or familiar with something: Refers to being habituated.
  • Example: "She is used to working late hours."

Verb (past tense and past participle)

• To employ or put into service for a purpose: Refers to the action of utilizing something.
  • Example: "He used the phone to call for help."