the world > matter > condition of matter > bad condition of matter > [adjective] > by loss of material or wasted > worn > tattered (5)
(in quot. 1380, slashing of garments).
Torn or rent so as to hang in tatters; ragged. (See also tottered, adj. 1.)
Of the nature of tatters; tattered.
Full of tatters; tattered, ragged. Also in combinations, as tattery-clothed adj.