Noun

1. Affray; broil; contest; combat; brawl; melee.

   "Into the Fray"

Verb

1. To unravel; used particularly for the edge of something made of cloth, or the end of a rope.

   The ribbon frayed at the cut end.

2. To cause exhaustion, wear out (a person's mental strength).

   The stressful day ended in frayed nerves. (Metaphorical use; nerves are visualised as strings)