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Definitions

used

[yoozd, yoost] / yuzd, yust /
ADJECTIVE
secondhand
Synonyms
STRONG
recycled worn
WEAK
hand-me-down nearly new not new passed down pre-owned

Usage

What is another way to say used? What is used often has depreciated or been diminished, sometimes completely consumed: a used automobile; All the butter has been used. Used is the past participle of use, which is a general verb: to use a telephone; to use a saw and other tools; to use one's eyes; to use eggs in cooking. As applied to persons, use implies some selfish or sinister purpose: to use another to advance oneself. Utilize implies practical or profitable use: to utilize the means at hand, a modern system of lighting.

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.

Consider how your brokerage account and your HSA could be used as a financial bridge before Social Security begins, or to cover emergencies.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026

Doug Ommen, the insurance commissioner in Iowa, home to more insurance investments than any other state, said commissioners have always used their authority to change risk scores they believe are too high.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

The UN human rights chief, Volker Türk, meanwhile said he deplored "the tirade of incendiary rhetoric being used in the Middle East war by all parties", calling it "sickening".

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

They help us discuss what thoughtful, constructive behavior in the finance industry can look like and how a sharp finance tool kit can be used effectively for social impact.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

My mom and Uncle Max used to hustle rides for the Late Night Cult Movies when they were my age.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith