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 center, the Warriors gave him a handful of post-ups, providing him space to work with his back to the basket. — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 10 July 2026

In many cases, old-school pieces were built with higher-quality materials and a level of craftsmanship that’s hard to come by compared to today’s standards. — Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 July 2026

Over-the-top activities and old-school cruise traditions done with a contemporary flair. — Fran Golden, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2026

Maisel and Mahoney point to at least three reasons why real-world markets behave differently than old-school economics would predict. — Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 7 July 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