old hat
1
used to describe something that has been used many times or has existed for an extended period of time and is no longer new
The idiom "old hat" likely originates from the practice of using hats as a fashion accessory. In the 19th century, people frequently wore hats as a symbol of style and social status. As fashions changed, what was once considered stylish and new would eventually become outdated or "old hat." This expression is now used to describe something that is no longer considered new, exciting, or innovative.
- Wearing a tuxedo to the office these days is old hat; casual attire is the new norm.
- His jokes about smartphones being cutting-edge technology are old hat; we've heard them a million times.
- For the fashion-forward, last year's trends are already old hat; they're always looking for the latest styles.
- In the fast-paced tech industry, what's new today can become old hat in a matter of months.
- She thought her idea for a smartphone app was groundbreaking, but by the time she developed it, it was already old hat.
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