said of fabric or rope: to become worn, esp to start showing loose ragged threads at the edges

to separate the threads at the edge of (e.g. fabric)

said esp of a person's temper or nerves: to become strained so that one has difficulty maintaining self-control

to separate the threads at the edge of (e.g. fabric)

to strain or irritate (the temper or nerves)

(the fray) a dispute or competition

Two more candidates had decided to enter the fray

a brawl or fight