Long in the Tooth: Meaning, Examples and Sentences

Elaboration and Examples:

The idiom “long in the tooth” is a figurative expression used to describe someone who is old or aging. It suggests that the person has lived a long life and may show signs of physical aging, particularly in reference to their teeth. The idiom implies that the person has been around for a significant amount of time and may have experienced wear and tear, much like teeth that become worn down as a person ages.

The phrase is often used humorously or affectionately to refer to someone who is advanced in years or to make light-hearted remarks about aging. While it originally referred specifically to the condition of a horse’s teeth as an indicator of its age, the idiom has now expanded to describe people in general.

Here are two examples that illustrate the usage of the idiom:

Example 1:

“Grandma may be long in the tooth, but she can still tell the best stories.” Elaboration: In this example, the idiom is used to affectionately describe Grandma as old, implying that she has lived a long and eventful life. The phrase acknowledges her age while also emphasizing her wisdom and storytelling abilities.

Example 2:

“The professor may be long in the tooth, but his knowledge and experience are invaluable.” Elaboration: In this example, the idiom is used to acknowledge the professor’s age while highlighting the value of his extensive knowledge and experience. The phrase suggests that despite his age, the professor’s expertise and wisdom make him an invaluable resource in the academic field.

Overall, the idiom “long in the tooth” conveys the idea of someone being old or aging, often with a touch of humor or affection. It acknowledges the passage of time and the physical signs of aging, particularly in reference to teeth, while also recognizing the value and wisdom that can come with age.

Long in the Tooth

Sentences on “Long in the Tooth”

Grandma’s recipe book is long in the tooth, but her recipes always taste amazing.

Grandma’s rocking chair is long in the tooth, but it’s the comfiest seat in the house.

Mr. Johnson, our neighbor, is long in the tooth, but he’s always ready to share stories about the neighborhood’s history.

My car is long in the tooth, but it still gets me where I need to go, even if it’s not the most stylish ride.

My dad’s jokes are long in the tooth, but I still laugh to make him happy.

My favorite hoodie is long in the tooth, but I can’t bring myself to part with it because of all the memories attached to it.

My grandma’s cat may be long in the tooth, but it’s still playful and loves to chase toys.

My grandparents’ jokes are long in the tooth, but they still make me chuckle out of nostalgia.

My older brother’s music taste is long in the tooth, but he insists it’s the best.

Our family car is long in the tooth, but it still gets us where we need to go.

Our neighbor’s dog is long in the tooth, and it moves a little slower, but it’s always happy to see us.

Our school textbooks are long in the tooth, but we still have to study from them.

Some of the teachers at school are long in the tooth, but they have so much knowledge and experience to share.

The antique shop downtown is long in the tooth, but it’s filled with cool vintage items.

The board games at our family gatherings are long in the tooth, but we still have fun playing them together.

The cassette tapes in my parents’ attic are long in the tooth, but I enjoy exploring the music from their youth.

The classic novels I read for English class are long in the tooth, but they offer timeless wisdom and captivating storytelling.

The clock on the wall is long in the tooth, but it still ticks away and tells us the time.

The computer in the school computer lab is long in the tooth, but it’s still functional for our assignments.

The family recipes handed down from generation to generation are long in the tooth, but they are treasured for their delicious flavors and heritage.

The fashion trends from a few years ago are long in the tooth, but I still rock them because I believe in personal style.

The hand-me-down clothes from my older sister are long in the tooth, but I try to make them stylish.

The hiking trail I frequent is long in the tooth, but it offers breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility.

The hiking trail we often visit is long in the tooth, but its natural beauty and peacefulness never fail to rejuvenate me.

The local bookstore is long in the tooth, but it remains a cozy haven for bookworms like me.

The music my parents listen to is long in the tooth, but I appreciate it because it gives me a glimpse into their generation’s culture.

The old library downtown is long in the tooth, but it’s filled with so many interesting books.

The old movie theater in our town is long in the tooth, but it adds charm to the cinematic experience.

The old swing set at the park is long in the tooth, but we take turns swinging on it anyway.

The old treehouse in our backyard is long in the tooth, but it’s our secret hangout spot.

The phone I’ve had for years is long in the tooth, but I’m attached to it because it holds so many memories and sentimental value.

The playground at school is long in the tooth, but we still have fun playing on the old swings and slides.

The school cafeteria food is long in the tooth, but I’ve grown used to it and can’t help but crave it sometimes.

The sports equipment I’ve been using for a while is long in the tooth, but I’ve grown accustomed to it and it feels like an extension of myself when I’m playing.

The summer camp I attended for years is long in the tooth, but the memories and friendships made there will always hold a special place in my heart.

The teddy bear I’ve had since I was a baby is long in the tooth, but it’s still my favorite cuddle buddy.

The tree in our backyard is long in the tooth, with branches that have been around for years.

The video games I used to play as a kid are long in the tooth, but I still enjoy revisiting them for the nostalgia factor.

The vintage vinyl records in my dad’s collection are long in the tooth, but they have a unique sound that I appreciate.

The worn-out sneakers I’ve had for years are long in the tooth, but they’re so comfortable that I can’t part ways with them just yet.