outdate

Outdate is a transitive verb in English meaning to cause something to become outdated or obsolete; to render something no longer current, useful, or relevant. It is commonly applied to technologies, standards, or practices that are surpassed by newer developments. While it is synonymous in some contexts with “make outdated” or “render obsolete,” outdate emphasizes the process of losing currentness rather than the final state alone.

Etymology and usage notes: The word combines the prefix out- with the noun date, giving a sense of surpassing or pushing beyond the usual age of relevance. Its use is attested from Early Modern English, but it remains comparatively uncommon in contemporary speech and writing. Many modern writers prefer phrases such as “make outdated” or “render obsolete” to avoid potential ambiguity.

Examples and nuance: “The rapid release cycle outdates older models within months.” “New software updates outdate previous versions.” In most contexts, the action described by outdate is driven by rapid technological change, policy shifts, or evolving cultural expectations.

Relation to related terms: “Outdated” is the most common adjective form, describing something that is no longer current. “Obsolete” indicates that something has been superseded to a degree that it is no longer used or useful. “Obsolescence” is the process of becoming outdated or obsolete.

See also: outdated, obsolete, obsolescence, render obsolete.