1.
to become old, to grow worn, to age, to look dated
To show signs of age and use. Describes objects, buildings, or styles that have become worn, faded, or outdated over time.
古びた本を開く。
Open a worn-out old book.
この建物はだいぶ古びてきた。
This building has aged quite a bit.
古びた写真を眺めていると、あの頃のことを思い出す。
When I gaze at the old, faded photographs, I remember those days.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 古びた建物 (aged building)
- 古びた本 (worn old book)
- 古びた町並み (old, weathered townscape)
- 古びない (not age, remain timeless)
USAGE NOTES:
Most commonly used in the past participle form 古びた as a modifier. While it describes aging and wear, it does not necessarily carry a negative connotation — it can evoke a sense of nostalgia, character, or charm. The negative form 古びない is used to praise things that remain fresh or timeless despite the passage of time.