obsolescence

[ob-suh-les-uhns]

noun

1. the state, process, or condition of being or becoming obsolete.

obsolescence

1. A decline in the value of equipment or of a product brought about by an introduction of new technology or by changes in demand. (See planned obsolescence.)

Word History and Origins

Origin of obsolescence¹

First recorded in 1820–30; obsolesc(ent) + -ence

Example Sentences

Industrial policies and protectionism nearly always favor incumbent industries facing obsolescence.

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Boxer, who turns 85 next month, offered no counsel to Pelosi, though she pushed back against the notion that age necessarily equates with infirmity, or political obsolescence.

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If you think that sort of pre-baked election and voter obsolescence is a good thing, you might consider switching your registration to Russia or China.

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Planned obsolescence may be the reality of modern home gadgets, but a little TLC can go a long way.

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It’s possible artificial intelligence won’t usher us into obsolescence before it joins us in tuning out the miseries inherent to existing.

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Related Words

• annihilation 
• destruction 
• elimination