Established

Established is both an adjective and the past participle of the verb establish. As an adjective, it describes something that has existed for a long time, is widely recognized and accepted, or is firmly in place. Examples include long-established traditions, an established business, or an established fact, where the claim is treated as certain or settled rather than provisional. The term can carry connotations of legitimacy, stability, and continuity, and is often used to contrast with newer or experimental alternatives, as in established practices versus innovative approaches. In a legal or organizational context, established rules, procedures, and institutions are those that have been in effect for a substantial period and are generally accepted as standard.

As a past participle, established refers to the act of establishing, i.e., to found, create, or bring into being and set up on a permanent basis. This use is common in phrases such as established company, established road, or established law.

Etymology: established derives from establish, through Old French establir and Latin stabilire, from stabilis “stable.” Related forms include establishment, establishing, and long-established.

See also: establish, establishment, long-established.