old soul

American  

[ohld sohl] / ˈoʊld ˈsoʊl /

noun

1. a person, especially a child or young person, who demonstrates a maturity, understanding, or seriousness that is typical of someone much older.

   Our daughter was always so thoughtful and solemn, even as a baby—everyone says she’s an old soul.

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Etymology

Origin of old soul

First recorded in 1750–60; in reference to an old person

Example Sentences

“I think that just means I have an old soul, and I like everything,” Neilson said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2025

They're a very young couple, but the love story is so much deeper than that and has more of an old soul.

From Salon • Jan. 21, 2025

“Randy, in my opinion, had an old soul quality to his voice. That’s one of the things that made him unique, but also, somehow familiar.”

From Seattle Times • May 6, 2024

But no, who he is as a young man, Dominic, he’s an old soul.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 11, 2024

“Madame Laforc^.’ Came all the way from Carrolton, too, poor old soul.

From "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin