That dates far back into the past; of ancient origin; made or formed long ago. Also: poetic having always existed; primeval. (In Old English and…

Originally and chiefly in olden days, olden time(s). Belonging to a past age or time; ancient, old; (also) aged.

Of early origin or formation, going far back in history, of ancient date.

(as) old as Adam: primevally old; existing since the very beginning of humanity. Cf. as old as Methuselah at Methuselah, n. 1a. Frequently hyperbo…

Of or relating to antiquity; ancient, antique. Cf. antiquarian, adj. Obsolete.

Of an event, period of time, etc.: early in date, ancient; (of a date) early. Now rare.

Belonging to the earliest time or stage; original, first. Also: belonging to an ancient time; primitive, primeval. Cf. primary, adj. 1.

Ancient; venerable from age, time-honoured.

Of a great age, old, ancient.

Dating from the time of Noah; very ancient.

Of a thing, esp. an animal or plant: very old, ancient; venerable.

(as) old as the hills, exceedingly or immeasurably old.

Occasionally used in poetry for old, adj. (see for earlier instances).

That has existed for a very long time; extremely old.

Ancient.

Very ancient; old-fashioned. rare.

Misreading of primal, adj.