archaism

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈɑːr.keɪ.ɪ.zəm/

Definition

A word, phrase, or style that is no longer in common use but is retained for historical flavor or artistic effect.

Examples

• The author filled her fantasy novel with archaisms to give the dialogue a medieval feeling.

• Using 'thou' in modern conversation is a clear archaism that often sounds pretentious.

• Legal documents are notorious for containing archaisms that make them difficult for the average person to read.

Synonyms of archaism

Words with a similar meaning to archaism:

• old word
• obsolete term
• antiquated expression
• fossilized term

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