elders

Noun

elder (plural elders)

1. A leader or senior member of a tribe or community, often of considerable age, respected as an authority figure, especially in a counselling, consultative, or ceremonial role.
   • We were presented to the village elder.
2. (US) An old person.
   • Treating illness among society’s elders is challenging since board-certified geriatricians (physicians trained, knowledgeable and certified in treating older patients) are in short supply, here in El Paso and throughout the country.2022, Ruth Taber, “Opinion: We’ll be healthier and happier if we adjust our thinking about aging”, in El Paso Matters

   Synonyms:

   eld

3. (in plural, relational) One who is older than another.
   • Respect your elders.
4. One who lived at an earlier period; a predecessor.
   • Carry your Head[…] as your Elders have done.1692, Roger L’Estrange, “ (please specify the fable number.) (please specify the name of the fable.)”, in Fables, of Æsop and Other Eminent Mythologists: […], London: […] R[ichard] Sare, […], →OCLC

   Synonyms:

   antecessor

5. An officer of a church, sometimes having teaching responsibilities.
6. A clergyman authorized to administer all the sacraments.
   • a travelling elder

See all 17 meanings of elder