elderly

[ el-der-lee ]

adjective

1. of advanced age; old:

   discounts for elderly patrons.

2. of or relating to persons in later life.

noun

, (used with a plural verb)

1. Usually the elderly. elderly people collectively; senior citizens.

elderly

/ ˈɛldəlɪ /

adjective

1. 1. quite old; past middle age
   2. ( as collective noun; preceded by the ) geriatric

      the elderly

Usage

Referring to any group using the formula the elderly , the disabled is nowadays felt to be inappropriate because it glosses over people's individuality and perpetuates stereotypes. It is preferable to use phrases such as disabled people and so forth. Many people also prefer to talk about older rather than elderly people for similar reasons

Derived Forms

• ˈelderliness, noun

Other Words From

• eld·er·li·ness noun
• non·eld·er·ly noun
• un·eld·er·ly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of elderly¹

First recorded in 1605–15; elder ¹ + -ly

Example Sentences

Frances Scullion is a driver with Out and About Community Transport in Magherafelt, a charity that offers lifts and day trips to elderly and vulnerable adults.

From BBC

BBC News has seen evidence that in the month of Mrs Pollitt’s death, the NHS trust which oversees Royal Oldham used PAs to cover nearly 20% of doctor shifts in elderly care.

From BBC

But it also explores the infantilization of the elderly by their loved ones.

From Los Angeles Times

The gift shop features a life-size cutout of an elderly Im.

From Los Angeles Times

The outlet reported that many elderly people, as well as teenagers and children, were among those injured.

From BBC

Related Words

• aged
• aging
• old
• retired