adj
Uncommon
obsolete
OB-suh-leet
Obsolete (adj) means No longer used because something newer or better has replaced it. Example: “That software became obsolete once the new operating system launched.”
adj
1
No longer used because something newer or better has replaced it.
"That software became obsolete once the new operating system launched."
"Fax machines are largely obsolete in most offices now."
"Many of the old tools in the museum are obsolete today."
How to use obsolete
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishOut of date and no longer in practical use.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
become obsolete
render obsolete
obsolete technology
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Word forms
- Plural
- obsoletes
- Third person singular
- obsoletes
- Past tense
- obsoleted
- Comparative
- more obsolete
- Superlative
- most obsolete
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
That software became _____ once the new operating system launched.
Etymology
From Latin obsoletus, "worn out, gone out of use", from obsolescere, "to fall into disuse" — the source of the word "obsolescence".
Synonyms
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anachronistic
antediluvial
antediluvian
antiquated
antique
archaic
backward
backwards
behind the times
cobwebbed
cobwebby
dated
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for obsolete
See all rhymes for obsolete →Frequently asked questions
What does “obsolete” mean?
The word “obsolete” means no longer used because something newer or better has replaced it. In plain terms, out of date and no longer in practical use.
How do you pronounce “obsolete”?
“Obsolete” is pronounced OB-suh-leet (/ˈɑbsəlit/ in IPA).
How do you use “obsolete” in a sentence?
Here is “obsolete” used in a sentence: “That software became obsolete once the new operating system launched.”
What is another word for “obsolete”?
Words with a similar meaning to “obsolete” include anachronistic, antediluvial, antediluvian, antiquated, antique and archaic.
What is the opposite of “obsolete”?
The opposite of “obsolete” — its antonyms — are active, current, employed, fashionable and future proof.
What part of speech is “obsolete”?
“Obsolete” is an adjective.
Where does the word “obsolete” come from?
The word “obsolete” comes from Latin. From Latin obsoletus, "worn out, gone out of use", from obsolescere, "to fall into disuse" — the source of the word "obsolescence".
Is “obsolete” a common word?
“Obsolete” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between obsolete and outdated?
Obsolete means no longer used because something newer or better has replaced it entirely, often implying the item is no longer functional or relevant at all. Outdated can simply mean old-fashioned or behind current standards while still being usable, so obsolete is generally the stronger term.
Can technology become obsolete quickly?
Yes, technology is one of the most common areas where things become obsolete, since newer devices, formats, or software frequently replace older ones within a short time. A once-common gadget or file format can become obsolete as soon as a better replacement becomes standard.
Does obsolete mean broken or just unused?
Obsolete does not necessarily mean broken; it means the item or system is no longer used because it has been superseded by something newer or better. An obsolete device may still technically work but is no longer practical or supported.
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