new age

I. noun

1. usually capitalized N&A : an eclectic group of cultural attitudes arising in late 20th-century Western society that are adapted from those of a variety of cultures ancient and modern, that emphasize beliefs (as reincarnation, holism, pantheism, and occultism) outside the mainstream, and that advance alternative approaches to spirituality, right living, and health

2. or new age music often capitalized N&A : a soft soothing form of instrumental music often used to promote relaxation

• new ager \\ˈn(y)üˈājə(r)\ noun, usually capitalized N&A

• new agey \\-ˈājē\ adjective, usually capitalized N&A

II. adjective

Usage: sometimes capitalized N&A

1. : of, relating to, or being New Age or New Age music

2. : contemporary : modern

happy new age dads expertly diapering their always cheerful babies — Amy Saltzman et al