stove-up

adjective

: suffering physical discomfort caused by injury, illness, exercise, or overwork : battered, worn-out

horses … too old and stove-up for saddle work

—F. B. Gipson

several of the men were stove-up … and even some of the women showed signs of having been kicked or stepped on

—H. L. Davis

Word History

Etymology

from past participle of stave up, verb

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now