age
noun (countable)
UK/eɪdʒ/US/eɪdʒ/
the length of time someone or something has existed; a period in history
Example Sentences
His age prevented him from enrolling in the military program.
We live in an age defined by rapid technological progress.
This history museum features artifacts from the Bronze Age.
In today’s digital age, information spreads instantaneously around the globe.
She wonders if her age might restrict her ability to begin a completely different career.
The towering oak tree has withstood the passage of time, reflecting an age long since gone.
At the age of twelve, he had already composed his first concerto.
The ancient cathedral stands as a testament to an age of unparalleled craftsmanship, its stone walls silently telling stories of generations long past.
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Synonyms
verb (transitive)
UK/eɪdʒ/US/eɪdʒ/
to grow older, or to make someone or something appear older
Example Sentences
He hopes to age gracefully by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and positive outlook.
Wines often improve in quality as they age in wooden barrels.
We all begin to age from the moment we are born, though we rarely notice the subtle changes at first.
Stress and lack of sleep can make a person age more quickly than expected.
Cheese stored correctly will continue to age and develop a richer taste.
When people age, their priorities and perspectives on life can shift significantly.
She noticed her parents seemed to age more rapidly after taking on new responsibilities.
These photographs document how individuals age over decades, capturing the beauty and wisdom etched into their features across time.
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Antonyms
How to Use
Measures years lived or the process of growing olderUse this term as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it indicates how many years a person, place, or thing has existed, for example: “Her ___ is 30.” As a verb, it describes the act of becoming older, as in “He ___ gracefully.” You can employ it to discuss historical periods (“the Bronze ___”), life milestones (“coming of ___”), or demographic data (“the voting ___ is 18”). In more formal or academic writing, clarify context by pairing it with specific timeframes or modifiers (e.g., “middle ___,” “golden ___,” “digital ___”). In casual conversation, it appears frequently around birthdays, generational comparisons, and eligibility requirements. Whether highlighting personal growth, referencing a historical era, or showing an ongoing process, this word effectively anchors discussions about time’s passage.
Alternatives
If you need alternatives, consider “era,” “epoch,” or “stage” for historical or broad timeframes. For personal years, phrases like “years lived” or “span of life” can be more descriptive. Meanwhile, when focusing on the action of becoming older, “mature” or “grow older” work as synonyms. Choose the one that best suits your tone, whether formal, conversational, or creative. For instance, “He matured quickly” emphasizes development, while “He grew older” is more straightforward and colloquial.
Writing
In writing, referencing someone’s years helps provide context about their experiences or development. For example, “At the tender ___ of 12, she started studying astronomy” adds detail to a narrative. When discussing demographics, historical timelines, or generational shifts, use the term to make clear distinctions: “During the ___ of exploration, global trade expanded.” Vary your language by mixing in synonyms or rephrasing to avoid repetition and maintain clarity. Ensure the term is relevant—avoid inserting it where time is not a critical factor. Precision and context are key to keeping your readers informed and engaged.
Casual Conversation
In daily conversation, people commonly mention personal years around birthdays (“I just turned 25!”) or to compare life stages (“At my ___, I need more sleep than I used to.”). It’s also central to discussions about age-specific activities—“You can drive at the ___ of 16.” If the topic feels sensitive, tread carefully to avoid prying or offending. Casual talk often includes idiomatic expressions (“Over the hill” or “In this day and ___”) that can add humor or camaraderie. Use the word freely to share milestones, reflect on life changes, or explore generational perspectives with friends and family.
Etymology
Derived from Latin “aetas,” which passed into Old French as “aige” before entering English. Historically, it has referenced both personal lifespans and distinct historical eras, such as the “Stone ___” or “Iron ___.” Over centuries, the term has remained central to tracking human progress, whether on an individual scale or across civilizations. Its enduring usage highlights our inherent need to measure time, growth, and historical context.