Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Out of fashion; old-fashioned: Something that is "dated" is no longer considered modern, stylish, or appropriate for the present time. It often refers to styles, ideas, or technology from the recent past that now seem obsolete.
   • Having a specified date: Less commonly, "dated" can simply mean marked with a date.

Usage

• The primary use of "dated" is as an adjective to describe something as old-fashioned.
• It is often used to critique the style, design, or relevance of objects, ideas, or language.
• It can describe anything from clothing and furniture to slang and attitudes.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • Her hairstyle looks very dated now. (It was fashionable in the past but is not anymore.)
  • The software uses a dated interface that is difficult to navigate. (The interface design is old and not up-to-date.)
  • Please return the dated form by the end of the month. (This use refers to the form having a date written on it.)

Advanced Usage

• "to become dated": to fall out of fashion over time.
  • Trends in social media can become dated very quickly.
• "dated terminology": words or phrases that are no longer considered appropriate or current.
  • The textbook's use of dated terminology makes it less useful for modern students.

Variants and Related Words

• Date (verb): To mark with a date; to originate from a particular time.
  • The letter is dated January 1st.
• Outdated (adjective): A stronger synonym for "dated," meaning completely obsolete or superseded.
  • The factory uses outdated machinery.

Synonyms

• Old-fashioned: Not modern; belonging to or typical of a time in the past.
• Outmoded: No longer fashionable or in use.
• Passé: No longer fashionable; out of date.

Antonyms

• Modern: Of or relating to the present or recent times.
• Contemporary: Belonging to or occurring in the present.
• Trendy: Very fashionable or up to date.

Related Phrases

• Show its age: To appear old or dated.
  • The building's design really shows its age.
• Behind the times: Not aware of or using the latest ideas or techniques; old-fashioned.
  • His management style is behind the times.

Adjective

1. marked by features of the immediate and usually discounted past