old-world

adjective

ˈōl(d)-ˈwər(-ə)ld How to pronounce old-world (audio)
Definition of old-worldnext
as in vintage
pleasantly reminiscent of an earlier time the theater has been painstakingly restored to its old-world elegance

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 old-world Driven by a growing panic over fast-evolving Chinese tech competitors, the old-world rivals are abandoning the tradition of corporate secrecy. — New Atlas, 24 June 2026 Anderson’s collection was about formality losing its grip — tuxedos loosened, denim ripped, sequins flashing, disco-ball boots stepping through a house built on old-world taste. — ABC News, 24 June 2026 This look is perfect for modern farmhouse styles and old-world or country aesthetics. — Michelle Mastro, The Spruce, 20 June 2026 What’s certain is their European background gave the home an air of old-world grandeur. — David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 13 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for old-world
Recent Examples of Synonyms for old-world
  1. vintage
  2. antique
  3. retro
  4. traditional
  5. historical
  6. historic
  7. antiquated
  8. old-time
Adjective
  • An Oregon teenager paid $3 for a vintage uniform worn by one of basketball’s all-time greats.
    — Casey Parks, Washington Post, 18 July 2026
  • Coral necklaces are enjoying a new wave of popularity thanks to the resurgence of vintage aesthetics and, above all, the magnificent jewelry of the 1980s, now highly sought-after at flea markets and specialty shops.
    — Selene Oliva, Glamour, 18 July 2026
Definition of vintage
Adjective
  • Coupled with the pair’s extensive collection of antique furniture, the result is a shockingly precocious home, one that is mature beyond its years.
    — Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 20 July 2026
  • In recent years, Sestri Levante has gained recognition for its efforts to preserve the leudo, an antique Ligurian vessel, dating from the Middle Ages, that was once used to transport food and wine.
    — Catherine Sabino, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026
Definition of antique
Adjective
  • Rather than a custom Chrome Hearts leather suit, this time, te look seemed like a real retro deal.
    — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 15 July 2026
  • During the premiere, White will welcome two teams of TV stars, sending them on a quest to find ‘90s-retro properties.
    — McKinley Franklin, HollywoodReporter, 15 July 2026
Definition of retro
Adjective
  • Meanwhile, traditional efforts to take undocumented immigrants into custody from their homes have become less effective.
    — Andy Rose, CNN Money, 16 July 2026
  • While there are some drawbacks compared to traditional investments — such as its inability to earn dividends — there are several ways to add gold to your portfolio.
    — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 15 July 2026
Definition of traditional
Adjective
  • There are historical examples of teams that seemed dead in the water only to catch fire and make the playoffs.
    — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 16 July 2026
  • The interest is less in reproducing historical jewelry — no one is asking clients to dress like Julius Caesar — than in giving contemporary pieces the patina, uniqueness and narrative of objects that appear to have lived another life.
    — Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 16 July 2026
Definition of historical
Adjective
  • Though the team failed to advance to the knockout round, its historic run inspired an outpouring of national pride, while uniting Haitians at home and abroad.
    — Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 15 July 2026
  • The port lies near the historic village of Tis, where archaeological remains date back to at least 2500 BCE.
    — Billy Stockwell, CNN Money, 15 July 2026
Definition of historic
Adjective
  • But Merrywood’s charms, both elegant and antiquated, might face the wrecking ball later this year.
    — Brian Bell, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 July 2026
  • During his Superman press tour last year, Nicholas Hoult paraded around New York City wearing oversized totes, including the Prada Buckle antiquated leather bag.
    — Daisy Maldonado, InStyle, 10 July 2026
Definition of antiquated
Adjective
  • An adventure with worms, good fat juicy old-time earthworms, moist and sexy and leaving their mucus on you.
    — Padgett Powell, Harpers Magazine, 30 June 2026
  • This old-time favorite is always a good idea.
    — Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 23 June 2026
Definition of old-time

Browse Nearby Words

old wives' tales
old-world
oleaginous
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Cite this Entry

“Old-world.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/old-world. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on old-world

Nglish: Translation of old-world for Spanish Speakers

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