# AOL

/ˈeɪˈoʊˈɛɫ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/aol
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

Stands for America Online. a very old internet service that people used in the 1990s. Today, people mostly use the name as a joke to describe someone who is slow or behind the times with technology.

For teachers: Abbreviation for America Online. an early American web portal and online service provider, dominant during the dial-up era. In contemporary usage, it serves as a humorous metonym for obsolete technology or digital incompetence.

## Examples

- He still uses an AOL email address for his work.
- My uncle is so behind the times that he probably still thinks AOL is the only way to get online.

## Usage notes

- Usually functions as a proper noun; when used as a modifier, it typically implies that something is outdated.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.