gerontophobia

[ juh-ron-tuh-foh-bee-uh ]

noun

1. an irrational or disproportionate fear of old age, especially of growing old.
2. a fear of, disdain for, or aversion to old people.

Other Words From

• ge·ron·to·pho·bic adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of gerontophobia¹

First recorded in 1975–80; geronto- + -phobia

Example Sentences

Such “gerontophobia” is harmful because we internalize it.

From New York Times