Anachronism
harduh-NAK-ruh-niz-um
noun
Definition
Something that is out of place in terms of historical or chronological context
Examples
“A cell phone in a period drama would be an obvious anachronism.”
“His views on gender roles are an anachronism in modern society.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Anachronism is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "incongruity" or "relic" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "contemporary".
Related GRE Words
aberration
A departure from what is normal, usual, or expected
quotidian
Of or occurring every day; ordinary or everyday
evanescent
Soon passing out of sight, memory, or existence; quickly fading or disappearing
discrepancy
A lack of compatibility or similarity between two facts or claims
antediluvian
Of or belonging to the time before the biblical Flood; ridiculously old-fashioned
dilatory
Slow to act; intended to cause delay
Master anachronism and 800+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.