Anachronism

/əˈnækrənɪzəm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A thing belonging or appropriate to a period other than that in which it exists, especially a thing that is conspicuously old-fashioned.

The film featured a cell phone used by a character in a medieval setting, which was a glaring anachronism.

An error in chronology, especially a chronological misplacing of persons, events, objects, or customs in regard to each other.

In the historical novel, the author included an anachronism when the character referenced a modern automobile in a storyline set in the 1800s.

An event, object, or custom that is out of its proper time period.

The use of a typewriter in a contemporary office was seen as an anachronism by the younger employees.

From Greek 'anachronismos', from 'ana-' (against) + 'chronos' (time).

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.

chronology

The order of events in which they occur.

temporal

Relating to time.

contemporaneous

Existing, occurring, or originating during the same time.

Old-school

Using a typewriter in the digital age feels so old-school and like an anachronism.

Stuck in the past

His views on technology are so stuck in the past; it's like he’s an anachronism.