obsolescence

noun

ob·​so·​les·​cence ˌäb-sə-ˈle-sᵊn(t)s 

: the process of becoming obsolete or the condition of being nearly obsolete

the gradual obsolescence of machinery

reduced to obsolescence

the planned obsolescence of automobiles

Examples of obsolescence in a Sentence

the obsolescence of the old technology

Once a useful tool, slide rules have fallen into obsolescence.

Recent Examples on the Web

In the context of rapid skills obsolescence, this focus ensures that employees remain relevant in the job market, reducing turnover and fostering loyalty. —Philippe Riveron, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

But in France at the moment, today’s ultimatum is tomorrow’s obsolescence. —Lauren Collins, The New Yorker, 7 Dec. 2024

Director Michael Arden leans hard on an impressively high-tech set, but what makes the show click is the way its whimsy is cut by shadings of melancholy, with its robots ever-aware of their impending obsolescence and yet still trying to be human. —Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 5 Dec. 2024

And Akhtar thought about a play in which a consummate artist at the peak of his powers beholds a new technology and confronts his own obsolescence in the face of something so sublime. —Ayad Akhtar, The Atlantic, 4 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1832, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing obsolescence

• built-in/planned obsolescence

Kids Definition

obsolescence

noun

ob·​so·​les·​cence ˌäb-sə-ˈles-ᵊn(t)s 

: the process of becoming obsolete or the state of being nearly obsolete

Legal Definition

obsolescence

noun

ob·​so·​les·​cence ˌäb-sə-ˈles-ᵊns 

: a loss in the utility or value of property that results over time from intrinsic limitations (as outmoded facilities) or external circumstances

Note: Obsolescence is usually distinguished from depreciation and physical deterioration.

— economic obsolescence

: obsolescence that results from external factors (as location) that render a property obsolete, no longer competitive, unattractive to purchasers or investors, or of decreasing usefulness

claimed that the appraisal failed to account for economic obsolescence resulting from an adjacent waste facility

— functional obsolescence \ ˈfəŋk-​shə-​nəl-​ \

: obsolescence deriving from a lack of adequate or appropriate equipment, space, or design