What is the traditional New Year’s Eve song whose title means “old long since” in Scots?

The traditional New Year’s Eve song whose title means “old long since” in Scots is Auld Lang Syne.

The lyrics are based largely on a Scots poem published by Robert Burns in 1788. Burns wrote down and adapted words from older Scottish verses and songs rather than inventing every line from nothing. The phrase asks whether old times should be forgotten, then answers that they should be remembered and cherished.

The song became strongly associated with New Year celebrations through nineteenth-century Scottish and international customs. Its melody and words spread widely through printed songbooks, emigrant communities, dance halls, radio, and later television. English-speaking countries commonly sing it at midnight, although many people know only the opening verse and chorus.

Auld Lang Syne is not exclusively a New Year song. It is also used at farewells, reunions, memorial occasions, graduations, and the closing of public events. Pronunciations and melodies vary, but the familiar refrain usually includes the phrase “for auld lang syne.”