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

An old-school shag hairstyle traditionally hits between the collarbone and chest, but face shape and hair texture should dictate your most flattering length. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 27 Sep. 2026

The experience had a warm, old-school glow, not unlike the mid-century Pateks that are Shamshad’s specialty. — Adam Erace, Fortune, 26 Sep. 2026

The prolific Polish broke out with his low-budget cult hit, Twin Falls Idaho, and has since helmed an array of indie features ranging from a Kerouac adaptation (Big Sur) to a sci-fi spoof (Hot Bot) to an old-school Western (Terror on the Prairie). — Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 25 Sep. 2026

The menu leans into old-school continental classics, and everything is suitable for sharing. — Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 25 Sep. 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