Definition

Adjective 1. Very old and outdated: Something that is antiquated is extremely old-fashioned, belonging to or characteristic of a much earlier period and no longer useful, efficient, or suitable for modern times. 2. Obsolete or outmoded: Refers to ideas, laws, systems, or objects that have been superseded by newer, more modern versions and are now considered irrelevant or impractical.

Usage

The word "antiquated" is used to describe things that are not just old, but are also considered outdated and no longer appropriate for current use. It carries a negative connotation, implying that the thing described is behind the times and should be replaced.

Examples

• The factory still uses antiquated machinery from the 1950s.
• Many people argue that the country's antiquated voting system is in dire need of reform.
• His views on workplace management are hopelessly antiquated.

Advanced Usage

• "to render something antiquated": to cause something to become outdated.
  • The invention of the smartphone rendered many standalone devices, like portable music players, antiquated.
• "hopelessly antiquated": an intensifier emphasizing how completely outdated something is.
  • The textbook's information on technology is hopelessly antiquated.

Variants and Related Words

• Antique (adj/n): While "antique" can also mean old, it often has a positive or neutral connotation, suggesting value due to age and rarity (e.g., an vase). "Antiquated" is almost always negative.
• Antiquity (n): The ancient past, especially the period before the Middle Ages.

Synonyms

• Outdated: No longer modern or current.
• Obsolete: No longer produced or used; out of date.
• Archaic: Very old or old-fashioned (often used for language or customs).
• Outmoded: Not in fashion or no longer acceptable.
• Anachronistic: Belonging to a period other than that being portrayed; out of date in a noticeable way.

Antonyms

• Modern
• Current
• Up-to-date
• Contemporary
• State-of-the-art

Related Phrases and Idioms

• A relic of the past: This phrase is conceptually similar to "antiquated," describing something old that survives from an earlier time.
  • The typewriter in the attic is a relic of the past.
• Behind the times: Not aware of or using the latest ideas or techniques; old-fashioned.
  • Their business model is behind the times.

Adjective

1. so extremely old as seeming to belong to an earlier period
   • a ramshackle antediluvian tenement
   • antediluvian ideas
   • archaic laws