Meaning of the Word
Obsolete refers to something that is no longer in use, outdated, or has been replaced by something newer or more efficient.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- No longer produced or used; out of date.
- Describing something that has been superseded by newer technology, ideas, or practices.
- In a state of disuse or no longer relevant in the context of current needs.
History and Origin
The word obsolete comes from the Latin word obsoletus, meaning “worn out” or “discarded.” It is derived from obsolescere, meaning “to fall into disuse,” from ob- (meaning “away”) and solescere (meaning “to grow”). The term has been in use in English since the 16th century, originally referring to things that had fallen out of common use and gradually expanded to include anything considered outdated or no longer functional in a modern context.
Detailed Explanation
Obsolete refers to objects, ideas, practices, or technologies that have fallen out of use because they have been replaced by something more efficient, advanced, or relevant. For example, typewriters are considered obsolete in the face of modern computers and word processors. Similarly, a word or concept can become obsolete if it is no longer commonly used or understood, as with many outdated social customs or terms.
In business and technology, obsolescence is a term often used to describe products that are no longer competitive due to advancements in design, function, or performance. The term can also be applied to skills or knowledge that are no longer required in a changing environment.
Example Sentences
- The company’s old software became obsolete after the release of a new version with more features.
- With the rise of digital photography, film cameras are now considered obsolete.
- The obsolete machinery in the factory needed to be replaced to meet modern production standards.
- The idea that the Earth is flat has long been obsolete in scientific thought.
- Many traditional farming methods have become obsolete as modern technology has taken over.
- She found that her skills in manual bookkeeping were obsolete in the digital age.
- The obsolete terms used in the book made it difficult for modern readers to understand.
- The outdated policies of the company became obsolete after the new leadership took charge.
- Some of the older textbooks are now obsolete due to new research and discoveries in the field.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Outdated – No longer in fashion or use, similar to obsolete, often used for things that have been replaced.
- Old-fashioned – Describes something that is no longer current or relevant, much like obsolete.
- Antiquated – Refers to something that is very old and no longer useful or relevant.
- Defunct – Something that is no longer functioning or operational, often used for products or organizations.
- Archaic – Something that is ancient or outdated, especially in language or customs, much like obsolete.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Disuse – The state of no longer being used or practiced, often leading to obsolescence.
- Redundant – Something that is no longer necessary because it is outdated or superfluous.
- Superseded – Replaced by something newer or more efficient, a common result of obsolescence.
- Outmoded – Similar to obsolete, describing something that is no longer in style or use.
- Dated – Describes something that seems old-fashioned or behind the times, similar to obsolete.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Antiquity – The state of being very old, often used in the context of objects or practices that are considered obsolete.
- Outgrown – To surpass or leave behind something, especially when it becomes obsolete.
- Fossilized – Describes something that has remained unchanged for so long that it is no longer relevant, like obsolete practices or technologies.
- Inoperative – No longer functioning or active, similar to the state of being obsolete.
- Unfashionable – Describes something that is no longer in style, paralleling the idea of being obsolete in modern trends.
Antonyms
- Current – Describing something that is in use at the present time, the opposite of obsolete.
- Modern – Relating to the present or recent times, often used to describe something up-to-date or in contrast to obsolete.
- Relevant – Something that is applicable and meaningful to the current situation, the opposite of obsolete.
- Innovative – Characterized by new ideas or methods, often used to describe things that replace obsolete ones.
- State-of-the-art – Describing the latest or most advanced development in a field, the opposite of something obsolete.
