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Definitions

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extinct forgotten gone gone-by in oblivion late of old of yore old-fashioned old-time olden oldfangled one-time out-of-date previous quondam sometime vanished water over the dam water under the bridge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.

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

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

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2026

But they did produce fascinating scenes reminiscent of a bygone era, encapsulating the essence and charm of the FA Cup's history.

From BBC • Feb. 15, 2026

Unlike Steve, I haven’t agonized much about my bygone career or felt much of a vacuum where it once was.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 12, 2026

“The sword must lie buried with Martin. You would have little use for the dusty bones of a bygone hero. A simple deduction, even for one as old as I am.”

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques