ripe old age

Idioms  

1. An age advanced in years, as in I expect to live to a ripe old age. The adjective ripe here means “fully developed physically and mentally,” but the current use of the idiom usually just signifies a long lifespan. [Second half of 1300s]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

ripe old age

Frank Epperson accidentally hit upon his innovation at the ripe old age of 11.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 4, 2026

At the ripe old age of 67, the Grammy Awards are still considered "music's biggest night".

From BBC ● Jan. 31, 2026

At the ripe old age of 24, I’ve remained faithful to my plastic Nalgene bottle, a brand that has seen its own surges in popularity, for more than five years.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 11, 2024

Open on Wednesday while discussing the perspective she’s gained at the ripe old age of 19.

From Seattle Times ● Aug. 30, 2023

“Are we really supposed to know what we want to do for the rest of our lives at the ripe old age of seventeen?”

From "The Sun Is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon