Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

old Adam

noun

Definition of old Adam

: unregenerate human nature
  • grant that the old Adam in this child may be so buried
  • —Book of Common Prayer
  • the old Adam in me … rises and asserts himself
  • —R. W. Jackson
— called also old man

There's more!

Love words? You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!
Already a subscriber? Log in.

Origin and Etymology of old adam

after the Biblical Adam, the first man and first sinner

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up old Adam? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games