old-school

1 of 2

adjective

ˈōl(d)-ˌskül 

1

: adhering to traditional policies or practices

an old-school coach

2

: characteristic or evocative of an earlier or original style, manner, or form

old-school music

old school

2 of 2

noun

: adherents of traditional policies and practices

Synonyms of old-school

Adjective

• vintage
• retro
• antique
• traditional
• antiquated
• old-time
• historical
• historic

Examples of old-school in a Sentence

Adjective

an old-school romantic comedy in which the two leads don't jump into bed at the first opportunity

an old-school gentleman who opened doors and pulled out chairs for women

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Unlike via old-school shopping channels, where brands are in constant rotation and must make their case in a limited amount of time, on TikTok, longer Lives are better. — Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026

New York Jets safety Minkah Fitzpatrick delivered an old-school hit to Cleveland Browns rookie wide receiver KC Concepcion in the first quarter of their matchup on Sunday afternoon. — Ryan Gaydos Outkick, FOXNews.com, 11 Oct. 2026

In terms of what fans should expect, the look went for a very intentional old-school ‘70s anime style that is also more serialized than previous entries in the franchise. — Abbey White, HollywoodReporter, 9 Oct. 2026

Instead, old-school Milanese glamour decorates every one of the 301 rooms and suites. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1803, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1749, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for old-school

• ampoule
• bascule
• carpool
• cesspool
• ferrule
• footstool
• guayule
• lobule
• misrule
• preschool
• pustule
• whirlpool