The title of “Auld Lang Syne” comes from Scots.
The phrase means roughly “old long since” or, more naturally, “for old times’ sake.” Scottish poet Robert Burns wrote down and adapted the song’s words in 1788, drawing on older Scottish traditional material. The melody used today became widely associated with the song during the nineteenth century.
The song became a New Year’s Eve staple in many English-speaking countries through broadcasts and public celebrations. Its lyrics ask whether old acquaintances should be forgotten, making remembrance and friendship central themes rather than simply marking a calendar change.
Scots is distinct from both Scottish Gaelic and standard modern English. That distinction explains why some listeners recognize the words but do not immediately understand the title. “Auld” means “old,” while “syne” refers to times past or formerly.