Old

Definition

Old is an adjective that describes something that has existed for a long time, is advanced in age, or is no longer new or current. It can also refer to something that has been familiar or established for a significant duration.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /oʊld/
• Respelling: OHLD

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əʊld/
• Respelling: OHLD

Etymology

The word "old" originates from Old English "eald," derived from Proto-Germanic "*aldaz," meaning "grown-up" or "aged." Its root traces back to Proto-Indo-European "*al-" or "*el-," signifying "to grow" or "to nourish."

Derivatives

• Older (adjective, comparative)
• Oldest (adjective, superlative)
• Oldness (noun)
• Old-time (adjective)
• Old-fashioned (adjective)

Synonyms

• Aged
• Ancient
• Antique

Antonyms

• Young
• New
• Fresh

Usage

The term "old" is used in various contexts. For example: "The building is centuries old," or "He is an old friend of mine." It can describe age, familiarity, or a lack of novelty.

Related Terms

• Age: The length of time something has existed.
• Antique: An object of considerable age, often of historical value.
• Veteran: Someone experienced in a particular field, often due to age or duration.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Having existed for a long time: Refers to something that has persisted for a significant duration.
  • Example: "This is an old tradition."
• Advanced in age: Describes a person, animal, or living thing that has lived for many years.
  • Example: "My grandmother is 90 years old."
• No longer new or current: Refers to something that has been replaced or is out of date.
  • Example: "He replaced his old phone with a new model."
• Familiar or longstanding: Indicates something well-known or established over time.
  • Example: "He revisited his old school."