broken-down

[broh-kuhn-doun] / ˈbroʊ kənˈdaʊn /

ADJECTIVE

dilapidated

Synonyms

STRONGEST

battered decrepit ramshackle run down

WEAK

bedraggled deteriorated falling apart in disrepair infirm neglected old seedy shabby threadbare unsound

Antonyms

STRONGEST

good healthy

WEAK

intact solid sound sturdy well-kept

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

LeBron James is now a fancy hood ornament on a broken-down jalopy.

From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2026

McKechnie - who once said he treats "broken-down athletes who are almost like reclamation projects" - had discovered Hargreaves' knee issues were caused by pelvic instability and therefore got him working to strengthen his core.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

A van driver who crashed into a broken-down car in a smart motorway's fast lane has been found guilty of causing death by careless driving.

From BBC • Feb. 18, 2026

Redeveloping Venezuela’s broken-down oil infrastructure will cost tens of billions of dollars at least, and companies likely want assurances their investments will be worth it long-term.

From Barron's • Jan. 8, 2026

“It’s like she thinks we’re in some kind of broken-down parade,” Beverly said to Raymie.

From "Raymie Nightingale" by Kate DiCamillo

broken-down

Example Sentences

Related Words