Obsolesce: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from the Latin word 'obsolescere,' meaning 'to fall into disuse.'
• It entered the English language in the early 19th century, reflecting societal changes in technology and culture.
• Often used in discussions about technology and trends, the word captures the gradual process of becoming outdated.

Technology

• As technology advances, new devices can lead to older models becoming obsolescent, such as how smartphones quickly replace earlier models.
• Software can obsolesce when newer versions are released, making older ones less compatible with modern systems.
• Products such as DVDs and CDs have become obsolescent with the rise of streaming services.

Economics

• Obsolescence can drive consumer behavior, pushing people to buy newer products even if their current items still work.
• In planned obsolescence, companies intentionally design products to have a limited lifespan, prompting customers to replace them sooner.
• Economic cycles can be influenced by technological obsolescence, affecting job markets and industries.

Cultural Trends

• Fashion trends illustrate cultural obsolescence, where styles cycle in and out of popularity rapidly.
• Media formats can obsolesce, like how VHS tapes faded into history due to DVDs and now digital streaming.
• Cultural practices can also become obsolete as society evolves, such as certain traditions that lose popularity over time.

Environment

• Obsolescence affects sustainability; products that obsolesce quickly contribute to waste and environmental issues.
• Recycling initiatives often address the challenges posed by obsolescent materials and electronics.
• In contrast, some items are designed for longevity, challenging the conventional idea of planned obsolescence.