What does mended mean?
Mended is the past tense and past participle of the verb mend. It describes making a repair to something broken, damaged, or torn, as when someone mends a fence, patches a garment, or restores a damaged object. The word can also have a broader figurative meaning: a person or event may mend a relationship, heal a wound, or repair circumstances that had become difficult. In these uses, “mended” often suggests restoration after damage rather than a complete transformation. The expression “a stitch in time saves nine” reflects the traditional importance of repairing small problems before they worsen. Although “mended” is still widely understood, the simpler “fixed” or “repaired” may sound more conversational in everyday speech, while “mended” often has a traditional, literary, or gently old-fashioned tone.
To repair something that is broken, damaged, or torn; to restore it to a usable or satisfactory condition.
"He mended the chair by tightening its loose joints."
Common in British and US English. It can sound more traditional or literary than "repaired" or "fixed" in some contexts.
To improve or restore a relationship, situation, or condition that has been damaged.
"The mediation helped mend relations between the two departments."
This figurative use is common in formal and literary writing and often implies healing or restoring harmony.
The proverb "a stitch in time saves nine" makes the humble act of mending a reminder that small repairs can prevent bigger losses.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mended come from?
The word comes from Old English mendan, meaning to repair or make good, and is related to words in several Germanic languages. In modern English it developed both literal meanings involving repair and figurative meanings involving healing relationships or improving conditions. The related forms amend and emend entered English through Old French and Latin, where they developed senses connected with correcting faults or improving something.
Related word forms
How mended is actually used
The word is formal to neutral and slightly old-fashioned in some contexts, especially for repairing clothing or household items. It is common in figurative and literary uses.