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]

---

Example Sentences

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

After an offseason spent revamping his swing and rethinking his approach, there’s no doubt that Kelenic, at the ripe old age of 23, is intent on looking forward, not back.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 26, 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