antique-looking
|an-tique-look-ing|
/ænˈtiːkˌlʊkɪŋ/
appears like an antique
Etymology
'antique-looking' originates in English by combining the adjective 'antique' and the present-participial form 'looking' (from the verb 'look'), creating a compound that describes something that 'looks like an antique'. (Japanese)
'antique' entered English via Old French 'antique' (from Latin 'antiquus') meaning 'ancient, old'. Over time English adopted the word 'antique' to refer both to things from an earlier period and to objects made in an older style; the compound 'antique-looking' is a modern English formation combining 'antique' + 'looking'.
Originally from Latin 'antiquus' meaning 'ancient' or 'old'; in English 'antique' came to mean both genuinely old items and items in an older style. The compound 'antique-looking' specifically shifted the focus to appearance: 'appearing like an antique' rather than necessarily being authentically old.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
having the appearance, style, or characteristics of an antique; appearing old or of an earlier period in a way that suggests age or historical value.
She bought an antique-looking mirror that matched the Victorian decor.
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Adjective 2
made or treated so as to appear old; deliberately aged or distressed to imitate antique items (often used of furniture or decorative objects).
The shop sells antique-looking tables that are actually newly manufactured.
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Last updated: 2025/11/29 12:00