obsolescence
ob-suh-LESS-unss
/ˌɒbsəˈlɛsəns/
The process of becoming obsolete or outdated and no longer used.
Obsolescence can be 'planned' (designed to break) or 'functional' (replaced by better technology).
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'obsolescere', meaning 'to wear out' or 'grow old'. It suggests a slow fading away rather than a sudden stop.
Word relationships
- outmodedness: Outmodedness refers to being out of fashion; obsolescence refers to being out of use or utility.
- antiquity: Antiquity refers to great age; obsolescence refers to the process of losing relevance.
- modernity: Modernity is the state of being current and up-to-date.
Commonly confused with
- obsolete: Obsolete is the adjective (the state); obsolescence is the noun (the process).
Word family
- obsolete (adjective): No longer produced or used.
Collocations
- planned obsolescence
- technological obsolescence
- rapid obsolescence
- built-in obsolescence
Example sentences
- "The rapid pace of technology leads to the quick obsolescence of smartphones." Consumer Electronics
- "Planned obsolescence is a strategy used by some manufacturers to encourage repeat purchases." Business Strategy
Memory hook
'Obsolete' + 'Essence'. The essence of being obsolete. Fading into the past.
When not to use
Don't use it to mean 'old'; something can be old but still useful. Obsolescence means it is no longer useful.
Fun facts
- The 'Centennial Light' is the world's longest-lasting light bulb, burning since 1901, proving that obsolescence isn't always inevitable.
Related words
Explore more words
ruin, oblivion, atrophy, senescence, degradation, Depreciation
Also appears in
- Technology → Technological Obsolescence
- Time & History → Innovation, Modernization & Progress
- Time & History → Decline, Decay & Regression
- Environmental Policy & Sustainability Economics → Circular Economy & Resource Efficiency
- Engineering & Industrial Design → Industrial & Product Design
- Economic Theory & Analysis → Consumerism & Materialism
- Environmental Policy & Sustainability Economics → E-Waste & Technological Disposal
- Shopping & Consumer Retail → Brand Loyalty & Consumer Trends
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