Apedia

Long Tooth Means People’s Teeth Longer Older Gums

Metaphor Long in the tooth
Question Meaning What do you mean?
Meaning

To be long in the tooth means to be old.

Question Explanation Why does it mean this?
Explanation

People’s teeth look longer as they get older, because gums recede (shrink).

Question Example Example
Example

“I’m a bit too long in the tooth to want to start a new career now.”

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