fray

(also figuratively) To rub or wear away (something); to cause (something made of strands twisted or woven together, such as cloth or rope) to unravel through friction; also, to irritate (something) through chafing or rubbing; to chafe.

(specifically) Of a deer: to rub (its antlers or head) against a tree, etc., to remove the velvet from antlers or to mark territory; also, to rub its antlers against (a tree, etc.) for that purpose.

To force or make (a path, way, etc.) through.

(obsolete) To bruise (someone or something); also, to take the virginity of (someone, usually a female person); to deflower.

To become unravelled or worn; to unravel.

“The laces frayed at the cut end.”

To rub.

(specifically) Of a deer: to rub its antlers against a tree, etc., to remove the velvet or to mark territory.

(figuratively) Of a person's mental strength, nerves, temper, etc.: to become exhausted or worn out.

“The hectic day ended in her nerves frayed.”

(except poetic) To alarm or frighten (someone or something).

Often followed by away, off, or out: to frighten or scare (someone or something) away.

(by extension) To assail or attack (someone or something); to drive (someone or something) away by attacking.

(by extension) To chase (someone or something) away; to disperse.

To be afraid or frightened; to fear.

To make an assault or attack; also, to create a disturbance; to brawl, to fight.

A noisy commotion, especially resulting from fighting; a brawl, a fight; also, a loud quarrel.

“Though they did not know the reason for the dispute, they did not hesitate to leap into the fray.”

figurativelyA heated argument; a war of words.

Conflict, disagreement.