Olden

/ˈəʊl.dn̩/ · adjective

Meaning

From or relating to a previous era..

Definitions by Sense

1. From or relating to a previous era.
2. (archaic) Old; ancient.
3. (intransitive, dated or rare) To grow old; age; assume an older appearance or character; become affected by age.

Example Sentences

olden days, olden times

"You are right to some extent in what you say. In the olden days people had a stronger belief in all kinds of witchery; now they pretend not to believe in it, that they may be looked upon as sensible and educated people, as you say."

In olden days, a glimpse of stockings Was looked on as something shocking; Now, heaven knows, Anything goes.

We […] told over the story of past sufferings, and renewed olden vows of devotion.

Beowulf, behind his shield, thrust forth only his right arm. In it he had picked up the sword of Ing, well known in olden lore.

Of all Sedley's opponents in his debates with his creditors which now ensued, and harassed the feelings of the humiliated old gentleman so severely, that in six weeks he oldened more than he had done for fifteen years before—the most determined and obstinate seemed to be John Osborne, his old friend and neighbour […]

They were not worldly days; and so, as we olden with our passage through the world, they stay young, and we love them as pure youthful things are loved.

Synonyms for olden

Antonyms for olden

Related Words

Word Forms

• oldens
• oldening
• oldened

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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