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Showing results for ancient. Search instead for ancien.
Definitions

ancient

[eyn-shuhnt] / ˈeɪn ʃənt /
ADJECTIVE
old, often very old
Synonyms
STRONGEST
age-old antique archaic hoary old-fashioned timeworn venerable
STRONG
aged antediluvian bygone elderly fossil oldie relic remote
WEAK
antiquated back number been around creaky early few miles on lot of mileage moth-eaten obsolete old goat older out-of-date outmoded primal primeval primordial rusty superannuated worse for wear
Antonyms
STRONGEST
current fresh modern new
STRONG
young

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The surface contains widespread chloride deposits left behind by ancient salty water.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

Gladiatorial combat in ancient Rome was carefully managed entertainment.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Dressed in sky blue kimonos emblazoned with flowers, the dancers twist and twirl in unison in front of hundreds of spectators eager to see the annual "Miyako Odori" in the nation's spectacular ancient capital.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

This is a city of ancient caves but also of modern mills and atomic research facilities, which makes it impossible for two people to view it in the same way.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

“We have made three tableaux vivant of ancient Rome,” Alexander finished.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood