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 milkshakes — a major draw — come in traditional flavors and seasonal varieties, leaning into the shop’s playful, old-school vibe. Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 25 Feb. 2026 Just something about an old-school place serving tots that seems most fitting. Evan Grant, Dallas Morning News, 25 Feb. 2026 Robin, a youthful gay choreographer, and Lazzara, his paternalistic old-school benefactor, perhaps made an odd professional couple in the 1990s. Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 25 Feb. 2026 Two new-era members of the 50 cast who competed in a decidedly old-school manner are Jonathan Young and Joe Hunter. Joe Reid, Vulture, 25 Feb. 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

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Old-school.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/old-school. Accessed 27 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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