has-been
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.
“Not a star, just another has-been, lacing up his sneakers in an empty gym on a Wednesday night.”
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 25, 2026
Among other things, he has called you a fraudster and a failed political has-been, but you’re not responding in kind.
From Slate • Oct. 15, 2025
Sun-soaked, punk rock ’70s California, a fraught family safari in Africa, a frustrated has-been and a digital future portrayed in a PowerPoint presentation show how disparate lives can affect each other.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2025
He referred to the actions of Channel 9 newsreader Tony Jones, who shouted "Novak, he's overrated, Novak's a has-been, Novak kick him out" towards Djokovic fans while live on camera on Friday.
From BBC • Jan. 19, 2025
I hadn’t attained that level of status in my career and at my age, I was already considered a has-been.
From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad
![]()