Auld lang syne

Definitions

farewell or goodbye
Often used to say goodbye to someone or something that has been a part of your life in the past, but is now ending or changing
remembering old memories or good times
Frequently used to evoke nostalgic or sentimental feelings, particularly during the New Year's holiday to look back on the past year and reminisce about the good times shared with friends or loved ones
long-standing friendships or relationships
Refers to long-lasting relationships or friendships that have stood the test of time and are still cherished and remembered fondly

Examples of Auld lang syne

Every New Year's Eve, as the clock strikes midnight, the chorus of "Auld Lang Syne" echoes through the air, bringing people together in a moment of shared nostalgia.

The phrase "Auld Lang Syne" is used to signify an instance when people remember old times; here, it's associated with a tradition of singing a song that celebrates past friendships at New Year's.
As we raised our glasses in a toast, someone called out, "To auld lang syne!" and we all remembered our college days with fondness.

"Auld Lang Syne" is invoked during a toast to symbolize the remembrance of good times and old friends.
They sat on the porch, their conversation turning to auld lang syne, reminiscing about the summers they spent together as children.

"Auld Lang Syne" is referenced to describe the act of reminiscing, in this context about childhood memories.
As the veterans marched past, the crowd cheered and sang songs of auld lang syne in honor of their service and camaraderie.

Here, "Auld Lang Syne" symbolizes the collective memory and appreciation of the veterans' shared experiences.
The high school reunion felt like stepping into an auld lang syne scene, where everyone happily recounted tales from their youth.

"Auld Lang Syne" suggests a setting where people reunite to reminisce about past experiences together.
During the family's last gathering at their old homestead before it was sold, many toasts were made to auld lang syne and the memories made there.

Remembering and honoring the past, particularly at a significant location, is what "Auld Lang Syne" represents in this toast.
At the retirement ceremony, colleagues shared anecdotes that harked back to auld lang syne, celebrating the retiree's long career.

"Auld Lang Syne" is used to look back at someone's professional journey and long-standing relationships at work.
The antique store was a treasure trove of auld lang syne, each artifact carrying a history of its own.

"Auld Lang Syne" is employed metaphorically to describe items that are reminiscent of bygone eras.

Conclusion

The idiom "auld lang syne" is commonly used to say goodbye or farewell, but it also holds a deeper meaning of remembering old memories and cherishing long-standing relationships. It is often used during the New Year's holiday to reflect on the past and look forward to the future.

This phrase can also be used to express a sense of nostalgia and sentimentality towards the past, whether it be a specific event, a place, or a person. It is a way to honor and remember the good times that have passed and to hold onto them as cherished memories.

Origin of "Auld lang syne"

The origin of the idiom "auld lang syne" can be traced back to a Scottish poem written by Robert Burns in 1788, which was later set to a traditional folk tune. The phrase itself translates to "old long since" or "long long ago" in Scots language.

The poem and its accompanying tune became popular in Scotland and eventually spread to other parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries. It became a well-known tradition to sing "auld lang syne" at New Year's celebrations, symbolizing the passing of the old year and the welcoming of the new one.

Over time, the phrase has evolved to have a broader meaning, encompassing not just the passing of time but also the importance of remembering and cherishing the past. It has become a symbol of nostalgia and sentimentality, deeply ingrained in various cultures and traditions.