# obsolescence

/ˌɑbsəˈɫɛsəns/ (US) · /ˌɒbsəlˈɛsəns/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/obsolescence
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

the process of becoming old and no longer useful, because something newer and better exists.

For teachers: the process by which something becomes outdated and falls out of use, typically through replacement by newer technology or practices.

## Examples

- New phones cause rapid obsolescence of old models.
- The company updates its software yearly to avoid obsolescence and keep customers safe.
- Planned obsolescence in consumer electronics raises ethical questions, as manufacturers design products with limited lifespans to drive repeated purchases.

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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.