obsoletism

Definition

Noun: obsoletism refers to the practice of being overly attached to old or outdated things, or the tendency to use antiquated words, customs, or ideas.

Usage Examples

• (He uses many outdated words and phrases.)
• (The museum emphasized old-fashioned styles.)

Advanced Usage

• "a form of obsoletism": a specific instance or manner of clinging to the obsolete.
  • Collecting vintage typewriters is a form of obsoletism, but it preserves history. (It is a practice of valuing old things.)

Variants and Related Words

• Obsolescent (adj): becoming obsolete; going out of use.
  • The floppy disk is now obsolescent. (It is gradually becoming outdated.)
• Obsolescence (n): the process of becoming obsolete.
  • Planned obsolescence is common in electronics. (Products are designed to become obsolete quickly.)

Synonyms

• Antiquarianism: the study or love of ancient things.
• Archaism: the use of old or outdated language.
• Conservatism: resistance to change (in a broader sense).

Related Idioms

• Stuck in the past: unwilling to accept new ideas.
  • His obsoletism means he is stuck in the past. (He refuses to adopt modern ways.)
• Living in the Stone Age: using extremely outdated methods.
  • Using a manual typewriter in 2025 is a sign of obsoletism. (It is like living in a very old era.)