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Definition of obsolete


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ob·so·lete  audio  (bs-lt, bs-lt) KEY  

ADJECTIVE:
  1. No longer in use: an obsolete word.
  2. Outmoded in design, style, or construction: an obsolete locomotive.
  3. Biology Vestigial or imperfectly developed, especially in comparison with other individuals or related species; not clearly marked or seen; indistinct. Used of an organ or other part of an animal or plant.
TRANSITIVE VERB:
ob·so·let·ed , ob·so·let·ing , ob·so·letes
To cause to become obsolete.

ETYMOLOGY:
Latin obsoltus, past participle of obsolscere, to fall into disuse ; see obsolescent

OTHER FORMS:
obso·letely (Adverb), obso·leteness (Noun), obso·letism (Noun)


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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition.
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
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