mossback

noun

ˈmȯs-ˌbak How to pronounce mossback (audio)
Definition of mossbacknext
as in conservative
a person with old-fashioned ideas those mossbacks at the intelligence agency didn't get the memo that the world had changed

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of mossback This man performed in all of Shakespeare’s plays, Assumed all parts from mossbacks to boys young. — Richard Lederer, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Sep. 2019
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mossback
  1. conservative
  2. veteran
  3. fossil
  4. fogy
Noun
  • The Republican losses indiscriminately wiped out GOP firebrands, moderates and veteran conservatives nationwide.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 5 Nov. 2026
  • Leading up to the election, many traditional conservatives broke ranks and declared support for Hinojosa.
    — Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Nov. 2026
Definition of conservative
Noun
  • The Cubs’ World Series MVP praised the mix of hungry veterans and young guys looking to win their first title.
    — Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 2 Nov. 2026
  • Randle’s wife has her circle of friends nearby, and the veteran forward has his own community outside basketball.
    — C.J. Holmes, New York Daily News, 2 Nov. 2026
Definition of veteran
Noun
  • Claims of prehistoric chemistry persisting in fossils aren’t new.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 2 Nov. 2026
  • Like several other important fossils previously sold at auction, Jodi comes from Hell Creek Formation, a geological boneyard stretching across Montana, Wyoming and the Dakotas.
    — Jacopo Prisco, CNN Money, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of fossil
Noun
  • There’s no old fogey-ness to Lorne.
    — David Fear, Rolling Stone, 20 Apr. 2026
  • For the benefit of us old fogies?
    — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 30 Mar. 2026
Definition of fogy

Browse Nearby Words

mosques
mossback
mossbacked
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Cite this Entry

“Mossback.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mossback. Accessed 10 Nov. 2026.

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