Retronym

Updated: 11/12/2024 by Computer Hope

A retronym describes something old (retro) that once did not need a description. For example, snail mail is a retronym that describes "postal mail" which used to be the only way to send mail. However, today with e-mail (electronic mail) needs an extra description to help differentiate from the old form of mail.

Examples of computer retronyms

Below are some additional examples of computer-related retronyms.

Acronym, Backronym, Computer acronyms, Legacy, Obsolete, Skeuomorphism