shelf-worn
Handled too much
Shelf-worn describes merchandise—typically books—that has become slightly damaged or faded from sitting on display.
The wear comes not from use but from handling by browsers, exposure to light, or simply time: The bookstore sold shelf-worn copies at a discount.
Sometimes used figuratively for ideas or arguments that feel stale from overexposure.
Lost original color
- tatteredRipped and worn out
- frayedUnraveled at edges
- dog-earedCorners folded from use
- creasedBearing pressed lines
scuffed · scratched · dented · battered · yellowed · discolored · weathered · dulled
Having had prior ownership
- preownedPreviously belonging to another
- thriftedBought used, cheaply
- discountedReduced in price
- clearancePermitted passage or approval
remainder · marked-down · overstock · unsold · returned · browsed · handled · displayed
Old valued collectible
- vintageQuality from past eras
- patinaSurface film from aging
- antiquarianScholar of old artifacts
- out-of-printNo longer being published
rare · collectible · ephemera · memorabilia · provenance · aged · nostalgic · historical
faded
Lost original color
creased · scuffed · scratched · dented · battered · yellowed · discolored · weathered · dulled · foxed
secondhand
Having had prior ownership
- preownedPreviously belonging to another
- thriftedBought used, cheaply
- discountedReduced in price
clearance · remainder · marked-down · overstock · unsold · returned · browsed · handled · displayed · stacked
antique
Old valued collectible
- vintageQuality from past eras
- patinaSurface film from aging
- antiquarianScholar of old artifacts
out-of-print · rare · collectible · ephemera · memorabilia · provenance · aged · nostalgic · historical · period