vintage
/ˈvɪn.tɪdʒ/Used to describe something old, but still attractive, valuable, or of high quality. It often suggests a classic style from an earlier time.
- She wore a vintage dress to the party.
- This shop sells vintage furniture.
A type of wine made in a particular year, or the grapes and wine from that year. It can also mean a period when something was made.
- This is a good vintage for red wine.
- The car is a 1960s vintage.
Adinary Nuance
Vintage is not the same as old or used. Old only means not new, but vintage suggests style, quality, or charm from another time. It is often more positive than second-hand or antique, which can sound more about age than style. Writers choose vintage when they want to sound elegant, nostalgic, or fashionable.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- cổ điển
- Spanish
- vintage
- Chinese
- 复古
- Japanese
- ヴィンテージ
- Korean
- 빈티지
Etymology
Vintage came into English from Old French, based on Latin vinea, meaning “vineyard.” It first referred to wine from a particular year, then to older things of good quality.
Common phrases
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is vintage the same as old?
- Not exactly. Vintage usually means old in a stylish or valuable way.
- Can I use vintage for clothes?
- Yes. Vintage is very common for clothes, shoes, and accessories.
- Is vintage formal or informal?
- It is common in everyday English and also useful in writing.
- What is the difference between vintage and antique?
- Vintage usually means from an earlier era. Antique usually means much older and often more valuable.