established

The word “established” means widely recognized and accepted because it has existed for a long time. In plain terms, already set up, trusted, and accepted — not new or unproven.

“Established” is pronounced ih-STAB-lihsht (/ɪˈstæb.lɪʃt/ in IPA).

Here is “established” used in a sentence: “She works for an established law firm with a strong reputation.”

Words with a similar meaning to “established” include estd..

“Established” is an adjective.

“Established” is a very common word in modern English.

“Established” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: widely recognized and accepted because it has existed for a long time.

Established describes something that has existed for a long time and is widely recognized and trusted, such as an established company or tradition. New is its opposite: recently created and not yet proven or well known. Calling something established implies stability and a track record, which a new thing has not had time to build.

An established business is one that has been trading for a considerable time and has built a solid reputation, loyal customers, and a recognized name. The word suggests reliability and staying power, as opposed to a start-up still finding its feet. Lenders and partners often prefer established firms for exactly this reason.

Usually, yes. Describing a person, brand, or idea as established signals credibility, permanence, and acceptance — qualities most people value. Occasionally it carries a slightly negative edge, hinting that something is set in its ways or resistant to change, but in most contexts it is a compliment implying trust and proven success.

Common opposites include new, emerging, and up-and-coming, which describe things that are recent and still unproven. Words like fledgling, budding, and untested also work when stressing a lack of track record. In business, an established company contrasts with a start-up or newcomer that has yet to earn recognition.