old world etymology

Etymology

• Old English: eald worold
• Middle English: old world

Meaning

The term "old world" typically refers to the continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa, which were known to Europeans before the discovery of the Americas. It is used in contrast to the "new world," which refers to the Americas.

Origin

The term "old world" originated in the 16th century, when European explorers first encountered the Americas. They realized that this new land was not part of the known world, which they referred to as the "old world."

The division between the old and new worlds was further reinforced by the fact that the Americas had distinct cultures, languages, and ecosystems. Europeans saw themselves as the inheritors of a long and rich history, while the Americas were seen as a new and mysterious frontier.

Usage

Today, the term "old world" is still used to refer to Europe, Asia, and Africa, but it is also used in a more general sense to refer to things that are traditional, established, or familiar. For example, someone might say that they prefer "old world" wines over new world wines.

The term "old world" can also be used to refer to a period of time, especially the time before the discovery of the Americas. For example, someone might talk about "old world history."

Examples

• The old world continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa are very different from the new world continents of the Americas.
• I prefer old world wines over new world wines because I like their more subtle flavors.
• Old world history is a fascinating topic. It is a time of great change and upheaval.

old world relate terms

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• world

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• yard

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• worldly

  Etymology Old English weorold world from Proto Germanic weralz world people C

• Donald

  Etymology Irish Domhnall Meaning World ruler Origin The name Donald originated

• mundane

  Etymology Mundane derives from the Latin word mundānus meaning of the world It

• ecumenical

  Etymology Greek oikoumenikos pertaining to the inhabited world From oikeo to

• quail

  Etymology The word quail comes from the Old French word quaille which is derived fro

• cosmic

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• state

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• cipher

  Etymology The word cipher comes from the Old French word chifre which in turn comes

• brainstorm

  Etymology Origin Old Norse brainstormr Components brá brow forehead steinn