test of time

test of time

A figurative test that a person or thing "passes" if it works, functions, or endures for a very long time. As computer technology improves, it's ironically getting harder and harder to find a piece of equipment that can survive the test of time. Of all the other cast members, hers was the only career that withstood the test of time.
See also: of, test, time
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

test of time, stood the/passed the

Proved to be of lasting value. Although the idea is undoubtedly older, this expression appears to date only from 1800 or so. Washington Irving used it in his Sketch Book (1820): “They have borne the test of time.”
See also: of, passe, stood, test
The Dictionary of Clichés by Christine Ammer
See also:
  • test of time, stood the/passed the
  • up to one's ears/eyes/eyebrows, to be
  • Abraham
  • Abraham's bosom
  • the history books
  • the/an answer to (one's) prayer(s)
  • the answer to somebody's prayers
  • draw the line
  • at a dead end
  • be history
References in classic literature
That has stood and still stands the test of time. And, had we no other reason to treasure it, we would still for its simple musical language look upon it as one of the fine things in our literature.
Philip's piety had not stood the test of time, and he had long since given up his nightly reading of the Bible; but now, under the influence of Mr.
I would much rather watch some of the old classics like Dad's Army, Only Fools and Horses and Porridge, to name just a few of the fantastic TV programmes that have stood the test of time for myself, rather than things like I'm a (Z list) Celebrity Get Me Out Of (into) Here, Britain's Got (no) Talent, Strictly Come (two left feet) Dancing, X Factor (the X simply meaning no!) and The (bad) Voice.
The Foreign Minister said the Great Wall of China is a symbol of China's triumphs and it has stood the test of time like the friendship between Pakistan and China.
Summary: These traditions have stood the test of time and become symbolic of the holy month
Skyline University College, an institution that continues to withstand the test of time, has now evolved with a new mission to deliver innovative, enterprising, and techno-creative education.
Oft derided by the metropolitan media, the Brummie metal pioneers have stood the test of time. This ferociously handsome limited edition box set gathers the band's seminal first eight Ozzy Osbournefronted albums on new vinyl editions, complete with single rarities and a digital edition of the contents too.
I agree with American Ambassador in Riyadh Joseph Westphal's views that the US-Saudi ties withstand test of time. (US-Saudi relations, which stood the test of time, will achieve its shared goals: US envoy, published in Arab News on Oct.
Based on shared geopolitical, economic, historical and strategic interest, Pak-China relations have always stood the test of time, he added.
5GREASE 5 GREASE (1978) - Who cares that the cast were edging towards their thirties when they made this high school musical; the tale of the Pink Ladies and T-Birds has stood the test of time.
Other 1974 inventions which have stood the test of time include the Rubik's Cube.
But how will all those electronics stand up to the test of time?
This 2002 release has stood the test of time well, and serves as one of the better reminders of Patrick Stewart's time at the helm of the Starship Enterprise.
I feel it is about time us Christians stood up to be counted for the faith and belief we have in a God who, in spite of what Eddie thinks, has stood the test of time down through the ages for millions of people.
Best's Review's annual Standing the Test of Time feature, showcasing insurers that have maintained a Best's Financial Strength Rating of 'A' or higher for at least 50 years, has evolved into a real-time listing.