The Village Idiom

old fart

The idiom "old fart" is a colloquial expression used to describe an elderly person who is perceived as being grumpy, curmudgeonly, or stuck in their ways.

Informal · Filed under O

In a sentence

  • He's always complaining about the new technology, he's such an old fart.
  • My grandpa is a bit of an old fart, but we still love him.
  • Stop being such an old fart and try something new for once.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "old fart" is related to two other idioms: "old fogey" and "young fogey". These idioms share a similar meaning and are used to describe individuals who are old-fashioned, traditional, or resistant to change.

The phrase "old fart" is often used in a derogatory or humorous manner to refer to an elderly person who is seen as out-of-touch or eccentric. Similarly, the idiom "old fogey" is used to describe an old-fashioned person who is resistant to new ideas and ways of thinking. The word "fogey" is derived from the word "fogy," which means a person who is excessively old-fashioned or fussy.

The idiom "young fogey," on the other hand, refers to a younger person who displays the same characteristics as an old-fashioned individual. It is used to describe someone who is seen as overly concerned with tradition and resistant to modern ideas or trends.

While the exact origins of these idioms may be unclear, they all share a common theme of describing individuals who are set in their ways and resistant to change. By using the terms "old fart," "old fogey," and "young fogey," we can communicate the idea of someone who is out-of-touch or traditional in a concise and relatable manner.

These idioms can be valuable tools for writers and speakers who wish to convey a specific meaning or attitude towards elderly or traditional individuals. However, it is important to use them with sensitivity and awareness of the potential negative connotations they may carry. While they may be appropriate in a casual or humorous context, they may not be suitable for more formal or respectful situations.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.