Demode

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/dɪˈməʊd/

Definitions

• To go out of fashion or become outdated, especially with respect to style or trends.
• To fall into obsolescence or no longer be relevant in a given context.

Usage Examples

• The design of that building has demoded over the years as architectural trends evolved.
• Many people believe that vinyl records have demoded in the digital music era.

Etymology

From the French word "démodé," meaning "out of fashion" or "old-fashioned," derived from the verb "démoder" meaning "to make outdated," which comes from "mode," meaning "fashion." The word entered English usage in the late 19th century.

Synonyms

• Outdated
• Old-fashioned
• Obsolete
• Antiquated
• Passé

Antonyms

• Modern
• Contemporary
• Current
• Fashionable
• Trendy

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciation of "demode" may vary slightly depending on the speaker's accent or region, though it is widely accepted as /dɪˈməʊd/ in most English-speaking countries. In some areas, the word may be pronounced with a stronger emphasis on the second syllable.

Historical Usage

The word "demode" entered the English language in the 19th century and has since been primarily used in contexts relating to fashion, trends, and cultural obsolescence. It is often used to describe things that were once popular but have since fallen out of favor.

Cultural Nuances

The term "demode" reflects the cyclical nature of trends in society and culture, especially in the context of fashion. It underscores the ever-changing nature of what is considered "in" and "out" of style. In modern usage, the term is often employed in a somewhat playful or dismissive manner to highlight things that have lost relevance.

More Information

The word "demode" has a particular relevance in the study of fashion and trends, as it encapsulates the notion that styles and ideas evolve over time. While the term was originally used to describe clothing or accessories that had fallen out of fashion, it is now widely used to describe anything that is considered outdated or obsolete in a contemporary context. Despite its somewhat negative connotation, being "demode" can sometimes imply that something has stood the test of time and is simply being revisited in a new form.