Anciens (en. Old)

/ɑ̃sjɛ̃/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

adjective

Who has lived in the past, often used to talk about ancient civilizations.

The ancient Greeks left an immense cultural legacy.

Les anciens Grecs ont laissé un héritage culturel immense.

Refers to something that is from a bygone era.

This house was built by my ancestors.

Cette maison a été construite par mes ancêtres.

The word 'anciens' comes from the Latin 'antiquus', meaning ancient or from a bygone era.

veterans

People who have fought in wars.

anciens combattants

alumni

Former students of an institution.

anciens élèves

ancient times

Past historical periods.

anciens temps

antiquity

The period of human history before the Middle Ages.

antiquité

historical

Pertaining to history.

historique

In the context of older people, it can mean someone wise.

Listen to the advice of the elders; they have experience.

Écoute les conseils des anciens, ils ont de l'expérience.

Can also refer to a person nostalgic for the past.

He is always in his old days; he keeps talking about the 'good old times'.

Il est toujours dans ses anciens, il parle sans cesse des 'bons vieux temps'.