make old bones

The phrase "make old bones" is used to talk about longevity, often in a negative context.

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Definition

C1General

(informal)To live to an advanced age.

Example

  • Given his reckless lifestyle, I doubt he'll make old bones.

C1General

(informal)To endure or last for a long time.

Example

  • This old car won't make old bones if we don't take better care of it.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "make old bones":

exercise bonemake one's bonespoint the bonesome old