Datedly: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'datedly' combines 'date,' meaning 'time or period,' and 'ly,' which turns adjectives into adverbs.
• It emerged in the English language around the late 19th century to describe things that feel outdated.
• Related words include 'dated,' which conveys similar implications of being old-fashioned.

Cultural References

• Fashion trends from the 80s and 90s are often described as 'dated' when they resurface, reflecting changes in style and societal norms.
• Movies or music that were once popular can now seem 'datedly' if they exhibit themes or styles that no longer resonate with modern audiences.
• Language itself evolves; certain phrases or slang can become datedly outdated as new generations introduce their own terms.

Psychology

• People often perceive dated trends as nostalgic, evoking feelings of comfort or warmth despite being out of style.
• The 'mere exposure effect' explains why some individuals might still find dated styles appealing due to familiarity.
• When evaluating outdated ideas, cognitive dissonance may occur, as one's current beliefs clash with past perceptions.

Literature

• Works from earlier centuries often use dated language, highlighting the evolution of English over time.
• Authors like Jane Austen and Charles Dickens can feel datedly relevant, as their themes still resonate, yet their style and context may seem old-fashioned.
• In literary analysis, understanding dated language helps readers appreciate historical contexts and societal norms of the period.

Technology

• The digital age rapidly renders technologies dated, such as floppy disks or early cell phones, which now represent a bygone era.
• Web design trends can appear datedly within just a few years due to the swift shifts in aesthetics and functionalities.
• Social media platforms also become dated as new ones emerge, causing past networks to feel obsolete.