† ˈarethede, arthedeObs.rare. [f.ar(e, OE.ǽr before (cf. air adv. and ere) + thede, OE.þéod people.] The people of former times; antiquity. a1440Sir Isumbras 6 Elders that by-fore us were That lyffede in arethede.a1440Sir Degrev. 7 That levede on arthede.