old-school

1 of 2

adjective

Synonyms of old-schoolnext
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

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
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Adjective
The old-school toys, now owned by 8-year-old Bonnie, face an existential threat with the introduction of a high-tech tablet toy named Lilypad (Greta Lee) that takes up most of the girl's attention. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026 The show featured a setlist full of her classic hits while introducing a blend of modern-day music and jazzy, old-school Vegas style. Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 27 Apr. 2026 Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs — tomatoes, no ketchup — but also for its Italian beef sandwiches and old-school diners. Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 25 Apr. 2026 The shop leans into dense, old-school ice cream — the kind that comes out of the freezer firm and packed with flavor. Tristan Graziano, Charlotte Observer, 24 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for old-school

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1803, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1749, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of old-school was in 1749

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Cite this Entry

“Old-school.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/old-school. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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