new-age
UK[ˈnjuː eɪdʒ]US[ˈnuː eɪdʒ]
adj
Relating to or characteristic of a broad movement in Western culture, especially from the late 20th century, concerned with alternative spiritual beliefs, holistic medicine, and personal growth.
adj
Modern and fashionable in a way that is considered progressive or unconventional.
Morpheme Breakdown
new
age
new
recently created or having existed for only a short time
age
a distinct period of history
Etymology
The compound term "new-age" is a modern English formation, directly combining the native Germanic adjective "new" with the Latinate noun "age." Its literal construction implies a "new era" or a fresh period in time. The term was first used in the mid-19th century in a general sense but gained its specific cultural meaning in the 1970s. It was applied to a diverse set of spiritual, philosophical, and health-related practices that positioned themselves as heralding a transformative epoch for humanity, distinct from established religious and scientific traditions. Thus, the concrete morphemes "new" and "age" evolved to denote a broad, abstract socio-cultural movement characterized by alternative spirituality and holistic thinking.
Analysis
Structure: new + age
- new: From Old English 'nīwe', 'nēowe', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'nieuw' and German 'neu'. Functions as an adjective meaning 'recently created or having existed for only a short time'.
- age: From Old French 'aage', 'eage', based on Latin 'aetas', 'aetat-', from 'aevum' ('age, era'). Functions as a noun meaning 'a distinct period of history'.
Examples
The store sells crystals, incense, and other new-age products.
She has a new-age approach to management, focusing on mindfulness and emotional intelligence.
The music is a blend of electronic sounds and folk melodies, creating a new-age ambiance.