What does outlasted mean?
Outlasted means that someone or something survived longer than another person or thing. The word is especially useful when describing an object, institution, idea, or influence that remains in existence or effectiveness after the period, competition, or person associated with it has ended. For example, a durable product may outlast a rival, while a performer may outlast a particular generation of audiences. The expression can carry a positive sense of endurance and staying power, but it can also be neutral or faintly critical when a product or practice is described as outlasting its usefulness. In conversation and formal writing, outlasted commonly appears in statements about durability, influence, relevance, competition, and historical importance.
verbTo survive longer than someone or something else. If one person or thing outlasts another, it remains in existence, use, or effectiveness for a longer period.
- To survive or remain in use, existence, or effectiveness longer than someone or something else.
"The old bridge outlasted several generations of the town despite years of neglect."
"The simple design outlasted several more complicated products."
"Her influence outlasted the politicians she worked alongside."
To outlast something is to remain when the thing you once shared a stage, a competition, or a lifetime with has disappeared.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of outlasted
The word outlast is formed from the prefix out- and the verb last, meaning to continue in existence. Both elements are of Germanic origin: out- is an Old English word meaning 'away from' or 'beyond,' while last ultimately derives from Old English læsten, meaning 'to follow' or 'to endure.' The combination therefore expresses remaining or enduring beyond the duration of something else. Related words such as lasting, lastly, and everlasting preserve the older root associated with continuation and endurance.
How outlasted is actually used
Outlasted is the past tense and past participle of outlast. It is used for people, objects, institutions, trends, and ideas, and often suggests that something remains effective or relevant beyond an expected endpoint.
Easily confused with outlasted
Outlast emphasizes lasting longer than another person or thing, while outlive can also mean to continue living after someone has died.