obsolete
/'ɔbsəli:t/
Definition
- Adjective:
- No longer in use or produced; out of date: Describes something, especially a word, custom, object, or technology, that has fallen out of common use, typically because it has been replaced by something newer or more effective.
- Of a part or characteristic in biology, imperfectly developed and not functional: Describes an organ or feature that has become rudimentary or non-functional through evolution.
Usage
The word "obsolete" is used to describe things that are no longer current, active, or in fashion. It often implies that the item has been superseded. It is a formal term commonly used in academic, technical, and historical contexts.
Examples
- Adjective:
- The typewriter is now an obsolete piece of technology.
- That law is obsolete and should be repealed.
- "Thou" and "thee" are obsolete pronouns in modern English.
- The appendix is considered an obsolete organ in humans.
Advanced Usage
- "to render something obsolete": to cause something to become outdated.
- The invention of the smartphone rendered many standalone devices obsolete.
- "to become obsolete": to fall out of use over time.
- Physical media like DVDs are rapidly becoming obsolete.
Variants and Related Words
- Obsolescence (noun): The process of becoming obsolete or the state of being obsolete.
- Planned obsolescence is a business strategy.
- Obsolescent (adjective): In the process of becoming obsolete.
- The technology is not yet obsolete, but it is obsolescent.
Synonyms
- Outdated: No longer modern or fashionable.
- Outmoded: Not in fashion or no longer usable.
- Archaic: Very old or old-fashioned (often used for language or style).
- Antiquated: Old-fashioned or outdated, especially in an embarrassing way.
- Defunct: No longer existing or functioning.
Antonyms
- Current: Belonging to the present time.
- Modern: Of or relating to the present or recent times.
- Contemporary: Living or occurring at the same time; modern.
- Up-to-date: Incorporating the latest developments or styles.
Idioms and Phrases
- "To go the way of the dodo": To become obsolete or extinct. (While not containing the word "obsolete," this idiom expresses the same concept.)
- Floppy disks have gone the way of the dodo.
Adjective
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no longer in use
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obsolete words
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