rag
word
Definition
A rag is a small piece of old cloth, usually used for cleaning or wiping things. It can also refer to clothes that are worn out and torn.
Usage & Nuances
Usually informal. Commonly used as 'cleaning rag' or 'old rag.' Can be used insultingly for worn-out clothes ('dressed in rags'). Also used in idioms like 'rag to riches.' Not to be confused with 'rag' meaning 'tease' (slang, mainly in UK/US), which is a different meaning.
Example Sentences
She used a rag to clean the table.
basic
His clothes were torn and looked like rags.
basic
Please throw that dirty rag away.
basic
After painting, my hands were covered in color so I wiped them on a rag.
natural
That old car looks like it was held together with rags and tape.
natural
He grew up in rags, but now he owns a successful company.
natural