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 entire county is packed with romantic charm, thanks to its quaint B&Bs and cozy, old-school restaurants. Cailey Rizzo, Travel + Leisure, 21 Jan. 2026 The team behind Balos opened Bar Angie in West End last spring, going for that old-school New York bistro vibe with some European touches. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 21 Jan. 2026 This masterful film is both an ode to old-school musicals and a remarkably modern piece of filmmaking — with Spielberg's explosive colors, expansive cinematography, and soaring song-and-dance numbers matching the weighty themes and timeless emotions of this classic. James Mercadante, Entertainment Weekly, 20 Jan. 2026 The old-school business of wash-and-fold laundry pickup and delivery is getting a second wind as more consumers—from college students to working professionals like Diaz—outsource their laundry. Elaine Pofeldt, Forbes.com, 20 Jan. 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 25 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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