over-the-hill
Definition
- Adjective:
- Too old to be useful or effective: The primary meaning describes someone or something that is considered past their prime, especially due to age, and no longer capable, competent, or productive.
- Past one's best years: Often used informally and sometimes disparagingly to indicate that a person is old and no longer as physically or mentally sharp as they once were.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used in informal, conversational contexts and can be considered insensitive or ageist. It is more common in spoken English than in formal writing.
- It can be applied metaphorically to objects, ideas, or styles that are considered outdated or obsolete.
Variants and Related Words
- Superannuated (adj): (More formal) Retired or disqualified because of age; obsolete.
- Past it (adj. phrase): (Informal, chiefly British) A very close synonym meaning too old to be effective.
- Long in the tooth (adj. phrase): An idiom meaning old, especially when referring to a person or animal.
Synonyms
- Obsolete
- Outdated
- Aged
- Geriatric (when referring specifically to people, can be more clinical or derogatory)
Antonyms
- In one's prime
- Young
- Vigorous
- Cutting-edge (when referring to things or ideas)
Related Idioms
- Over the hill: This is the standard idiomatic form of the adjective. It functions as a fixed expression.
- Past one's sell-by date: An idiom with a similar meaning, comparing a person to expired food.
Adjective
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too old to be useful
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He left the house...for the support of twelve superannuated wool carders- Anthony Trollope
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