Long in the tooth

usgb
adjective

To be old or aging.

He's getting a bit long in the tooth to be playing football.
Visual representation of "long in the tooth" - To be old or aging.

Often appears as...

  • getting long in the tooth
  • a bit long in the tooth

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "long in the tooth"
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Often Humorous

The phrase is frequently used in a light-hearted or humorous way, rather than as a serious comment about someone's age.

Illustration for Often Humorous
My dad is long in the tooth but he can still beat me in chess!
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Informal Contexts

It's common in casual conversation among friends, but may be seen as impolite if used in formal situations or with strangers.

Illustration for Informal Contexts
We're all a bit long in the tooth for an all-nighter.
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Not Literal

The phrase isn't about teeth. It's a metaphor for someone's experience or tenure often coinciding with older age.

Illustration for Not Literal
Professor Moore is long in the tooth, so he has a lot of wisdom to share.
Visual representation of the word "Long in the tooth"

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