Obsolete: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is generally used to describe something that is no longer in use or has fallen out of fashion due to newer alternatives. It is often applied to technology, practices, or objects that are not useful anymore.

• The VHS tapes are now considered obsolete.
• With the advent of smartphones, flip phones have become obsolete.

This term is often used to describe something that is no longer current or modern, implying that it has been replaced by something newer. It can be neutral or slightly negative depending on the context.

• His ideas on management are outdated.
• You are using an outdated version of the software.

This term is used to refer to something that is old-fashioned or out of date, often with a hint that it is no longer suitable for the modern world. It can sometimes carry a negative connotation suggesting inefficiency.

• The company's antiquated accounting system caused many delays.
• His views on gender roles are quite antiquated.

This word is typically used to describe something that belongs to an earlier period and is no longer used, except perhaps in certain specific contexts. It often carries a formal or literary connotation.

• The text was written in an archaic form of English.
• Some laws still contain archaic language that needs updating.

Commonly used in the context of software and technology, indicating that a feature or function is discouraged from use and may be removed in the future. It suggests planned obsolescence but doesn't necessarily mean it is currently non-functional.

• This API has been deprecated and will be removed in the next version.
• Using the deprecated method can cause compatibility issues.

Used to describe something that is no longer produced or used because something newer or better has replaced it. Often used in technology, products, and practices.

• The company replaced its obsolete computers with the latest models.
• The practice of sending faxes has become obsolete in most offices.

Refers to something that is no longer up to date and usually suggests the need for replace or improvement. Frequently used in relation to fashion, technology, methods, and information.

• Her wardrobe is full of outdated clothes from the '90s.
• The outdated software needs to be updated to the latest version.

Describes something very old and often no longer in everyday use, typically used in the context of language, customs, or artifacts. It can have a neutral or slightly scholarly tone.

• Shakespeare's plays contain many archaic words.
• The museum exhibited artifacts from archaic civilizations.

Refers to something that is very old and no longer useful or current. Often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying that change or updating is necessary.

• The antiquated laws have not been updated in several decades.
• Her views on gender roles are considered quite antiquated by today's standards.

Used to describe something that is no longer in use but still exists. Often used for buildings, infrastructure, or physical items.

• The disused railway tracks have become overgrown with weeds.
• They explored a disused factory on the edge of town.