bygone

[bahy-gawn, -gon] / ˈbaɪˌgɔn, -ˌgɒn /

ADJECTIVE

in the past

Synonyms

STRONG

ancient dead departed former lost

WEAK

antiquated archaic belated dated defunct down memory lane erstwhile extinct forgotten gone gone-by in oblivion late of old of yore old-fashioned old-time olden oldfangled one-time out-of-date previous quondam sometime vanished water over the dam water under the bridge

Antonyms

STRONG

alive existent existing living

WEAK

modern new recent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Section 122 is an artifact of the bygone Bretton Woods fixed-rate exchange system.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 8, 2026

As many noted, the instantly iconic photo of Hughes looks and feels like a throwback to a bygone era.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

"In bygone eras, dads and uncles would show young people how things are done," said the 52-year-old.

From BBC • Feb. 23, 2026

Kikuo and Shunsuke revere kabuki’s bygone giants, who are affixed with that moniker.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2026

The sewing machine made a resounding clatter in the room; it was of a ponderous, bygone make.

From "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin

Vocabulary lists containing bygone

Ancient Wisdom: Synonyms for "Old"

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Tolkien Reading Day, List 7

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Merle Haggard (1937-2016) Tribute List

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!