Meaning & Definition of word "Anachronism"
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Anachronism
/əˈnækrənɪzəm/
noun:
- 1. A thing belonging or appropriate to a period other than that in which it exists, especially a thing that is conspicuously old-fashioned.
- Example: The film featured a cell phone used by a character in a medieval setting, which was a glaring anachronism.
- 2. An error in chronology, especially a chronological misplacing of persons, events, objects, or customs in regard to each other.
- Example: In the historical novel, the author included an anachronism when the character referenced a modern automobile in a storyline set in the 1800s.
- 3. An event, object, or custom that is out of its proper time period.
- Example: The use of a typewriter in a contemporary office was seen as an anachronism by the younger employees.
Etymology
From Greek 'anachronismos', from 'ana-' (against) + 'chronos' (time).
Common Phrases and Expressions
historical anachronism:
A historical representation that is inaccurate in terms of time.
an anachronism in context:
A situation where something does not fit into its historical context.
Related Words
chronology:
The order of events in which they occur.
temporal:
Relating to time.
contemporaneous:
Existing, occurring, or originating during the same time.
Slang Meanings of anachronism
Meaning: Old-school
Example Sentence: Using a typewriter in the digital age feels so old-school and like an anachronism.
Meaning: Stuck in the past
Example Sentence: His views on technology are so stuck in the past; it's like he’s an anachronism.