Definitions

obsolete

[ob-suh-leet, ob-suh-leet] / ˌɒb səˈlit, ˈɒb səˌlit /

ADJECTIVE

no longer in use, in vogue

Synonyms

STRONGEST

antiquated archaic out-of-date outmoded

WEAK

anachronistic ancient antediluvian antique bygone dated dead dead and gone dinosaur discarded disused done for dusty extinct fossil gone had it has-been horse and buggy kaput moldy moth-eaten old old-fashioned old-hat old-school out out-of-fashion outworn passé stale superannuated superseded timeworn unfashionable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

current modern new

WEAK

contemporary in vogue present up-to-date

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.

This technology could make asphalt speed bumps obsolete.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026

There’s been speculation for years when club sports, travel ball and showcases might make education-based high school sports obsolete or irrelevant.

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2026

The persistent concern for cybersecurity companies is how artificial intelligence will affect the sector and whether it will make existing products obsolete.

From Barron's • May 27, 2026

Investors are reacting, analysts are talking about “FOBO” — fear of becoming obsolete — and organizations are again asking whether they are ready for what comes next.

From MarketWatch • May 27, 2026

Evolution occurred in scientific progress as it happened in nature: a positive trait was passed along, then proliferated; obsolete characteristics withered away, and the technology and the organization evolved into something new.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly

Vocabulary lists containing obsolete

The Giver

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 3

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

List 6

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!