Archaic
mediumNegative tonear-KAY-ik
adjective
Definition
Very old or old-fashioned; from an earlier period
Memory hook
ARCH-aic: as old as an ancient ARCH from Roman ruins - outdated and from another era.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The archaic law was finally repealed after decades of debate.”
“His archaic views on gender roles seemed out of place in modern society.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ law was finally repealed after decades of debate.”
Show answer
archaic
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Archaic is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "antiquated" or "obsolete" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "modern".
Related GRE Words
obsolete
No longer produced or used; out of date
anachronistic
Belonging to a period other than that being portrayed; out of place in time
antiquated
Old-fashioned or outdated
antediluvian
Of or belonging to the time before the biblical Flood; ridiculously old-fashioned
hoary
Gray or white with age; old and trite
venerable
Accorded great respect because of age, wisdom, or character
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