adjective
used
Previously owned or put to use, rather than new.
She buys a used bike instead of a new one.
Etymology
The participle describes something already put into service. For goods, it distinguishes previous ownership or use from being new.
More examples
- The store sells used furniture at reasonable prices.
- He checks the mileage before buying a used car.
- We donate our used textbooks after the semester ends.
Forms
used
Similar words
- secondhand
- Usually implies transfer from a previous owner to another.
- preowned
- Emphasizes prior ownership rather than actual wear or use.