Meaning of has-been | Babel Free

Definitions

A person, especially one who was formerly popular or influential, who continues in their field after their popularity or effectiveness has peaked and is now in decline.

derogatory, informal

Equivalents

Examples

“When the aforesaid alderman or another wishes to express mild contemptuosity for his fellows and himself in future I would suggest “old fossils” or “old has beens,” or “old fogies,” then the Sir Galahads that are always riding—or driving—about in this progressive dorp will not have any cause to complain.”

“I think Apple Computer is a has-been.”

“Is it better to never be than to be and eventually become a has-been?”

“They're saying Sonny Hayes isn't a has-been. He's a never-was.”

CEFR level