Elderly

Definition

Elderly is an adjective used to describe someone who is advanced in years, typically referring to individuals of an older age group, often past middle age and approaching or within the later stages of life. It can also be used as a noun to collectively describe older adults.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛldərli/
• Respelling: EL-der-lee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛldəli/
• Respelling: EL-duh-lee

Etymology

The word "elderly" originates from the Old English word "eldra," meaning "older" or "of advanced age," which is derived from "eald," meaning "old." The suffix "-ly" was added to form an adjective indicating characteristics related to age.

Derivatives

• Elder (noun)
• Eldership (noun)
• Elderliness (noun)
• Elders (noun)
• Elderhood (noun)

Synonyms

• Aged
• Senior
• Old

Antonyms

• Young
• Youthful
• Juvenile

Usage

The adjective "elderly" is frequently used to describe people of advanced age, often with a respectful or empathetic connotation. For example, "The elderly gentleman walked with a cane." As a noun, it can refer to the collective group of older individuals, as in "Programs are available for the elderly."

Related Terms

• Senior citizen: A polite term for an elderly person.
• Retiree: A person who has stopped working due to age or health.
• Geriatrics: The branch of medicine dealing with the health of elderly people.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Of an advanced age: Refers to a person who is in the later stages of life, typically older than middle-aged adults.
  • Example: "The elderly couple enjoyed their daily walks in the park."

Noun

• Older adults collectively: Used to refer to people as a group who are advanced in age, often requiring special social or medical attention.
  • Example: "Care facilities are available for the elderly."