oldie

American  

[ohl-dee] / ˈoʊl di /

Or oldy

noun

Informal.

plural

oldies

1. a popular song, joke, movie, etc., that was in vogue at a time in the past.

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oldie British  

/ ˈəʊldɪ /

noun

1. an old person or thing

2. a parent

   children and their oldies

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Etymology

Origin of oldie

First recorded in 1870–75; old + -ie

Explanation

An oldie is a beloved old song, TV show, or movie. Many radio stations specialize in playing "the golden oldies" — songs like "Poison Ivy" or "Shake Yo' Bootie." As time goes on, more and more highlights of popular culture become oldies — in the 1970s, people listened to oldies from the 50s, but today there are just as many classic radio oldies from the 70s and even 80s. You can also watch oldies on television — old shows in black and white like "Father Knows Best," or with obvious, dated laugh tracks, like "Gilligan's Island."

Example Sentences

Decide for yourself as you watch a master not so much try to outdo an oldie, but earn a modestly rousing encore.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 23, 2024

The PA played an oldie: “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” while the ice crew picked up the hats.

From Washington Times • Dec. 4, 2023

But she added: "They will do just fine. Wish them luck from an oldie, tell them enjoy their youthful looks while they can."

From BBC • Aug. 2, 2023

Putting shrink film on windows to lock in heat and reduce drafts is an oldie, but a goodie.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 4, 2023

An oldie but goodie, first played more than 3,400 years ago.

From Salon • Oct. 22, 2022

Related Words

• age-old
• antique
• archaic
• hoary
• old-fashioned
• timeworn
• venerable