The term 'become threadbare' is a phrase used to describe something that has been worn out or damaged due to frequent use. The crossword solutions for this term are FRAY (4 letters), WEAR (4 letters), WORE (4 letters), and WEARS (5 letters). FRAY means to become worn or torn at the edges, WEAR means to have on one's body as clothing or adornment, WORE means to have had on one's body as clothing or adornment in the past, and WEARS means to have on one's body as clothing or adornment in the present. Together, these words describe the process of something becoming threadbare over time due to frequent use.