Clappered

/ˈklæpərd/ adjective

Definition

Exhausted, worn out, or broken down, particularly referring to machinery or a person in poor condition.

Etymology

From 'clapper' (part of a bell) + '-ed' (adjective suffix). Possibly related to something that is broken or no longer functions properly, worn from use.

Kelly Says

This dialect word likely comes from bell-making—a bell with a damaged clapper (the striking part inside) is worthless and produces no sound, so 'clappered' meant completely broken.

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