also: いくとし
noun
the passing year; the old year
Refers to the year that is ending, especially around New Year's. Often used in poetic or reflective contexts.
行く年を振り返って、来年の目標を立てる。
I look back on the passing year and set goals for the coming year.
行く年を惜しむ気持ちでいっぱいだ。
I am filled with a feeling of regret for the old year.
Compound of 行く (iku/yuku, 'to go') and 年 (toshi, 'year'), literally 'the going year'. The reading ゆくとし uses the older yuku form of the verb.