Long in the Tooth — Meaning, Origin, and How to Use It in Everyday English

Have you ever heard someone say an actor is getting a bit long in the tooth for action movies? It sounds odd, right? Teeth don’t grow longer as we age… or do they? This quirky idiom has a fascinating backstory, and in this post we’ll explore its meaning, origin, and how you can use it naturally in conversation.

Meaning of Long in the Tooth

The idiom long in the tooth is used to describe someone or something that is old or aging.

Primary meaning: Becoming old, often past the prime years.
Secondary nuance: Sometimes used humorously or gently to suggest someone is too old for a certain activity.

👉 Quick definition: Long in the tooth = old or aging, often beyond the ideal time for something.

Origin of Long in the Tooth

This phrase comes from the world of horses. As horses age, their gums recede, making their teeth appear longer. Horse traders would check a horse’s teeth to estimate its age — the longer the teeth, the older the horse.

By the 19th century, English speakers had borrowed this imagery to describe people and things, not just horses. Today, it’s a colorful way to talk about aging without being too blunt.

Examples in Sentences

Here are some ways you might hear or use long in the tooth:

Casual: “I’m getting a bit long in the tooth for all-night parties.”
Workplace: “That software is long in the tooth — we should upgrade to a newer version.”
Pop culture: “Some critics say the franchise is getting long in the tooth after ten sequels.”
Sports: “At 38, the striker is considered long in the tooth, but he’s still scoring goals.”
Friendly banter: “Don’t call me long in the tooth just because I remember dial-up internet!”
Formal writing: “The institution, though long in the tooth, remains respected for its traditions.”

Similar Idioms or Phrases

Here are a few expressions with similar meanings:

Over the hill — Suggests someone has passed their peak age or ability.
Past one’s prime — Indicates someone is no longer at their best.
Getting on in years — A polite way to say someone is aging.
Seen better days — Often used for objects, meaning worn out or old.

Personal Insight

I like long in the tooth because it’s playful without being harsh. It’s a phrase I sometimes use when writing about technology or pop culture that feels outdated. It adds a touch of humor while still making the point clear.

Conclusion

The idiom long in the tooth reminds us how language borrows from everyday life — in this case, horse trading — to create vivid expressions. Today, it’s a lighthearted way to talk about age, whether you’re describing a person, a gadget, or even a movie series.

Do you use long in the tooth in your everyday conversations? Share your favorite examples in the comments!

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