elder Definition
- 1a person who is older than you are
- 2a leader or senior figure in a tribe or community
Using elder: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "elder" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
My elder sister is a doctor.
Example
He is the eldest of the three brothers.
Example
The council of elders made the final decision.
Example
The village elder was respected by all.
elder Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using elder
the older people in a family, society, or organization
Example
The elder generation often has different values and beliefs than the younger generation.
Example
My grandfather always says that with age comes wisdom.
Example
In our culture, it's important to respect your elders.
Phrases with elder
Example
She is my elder by two years.
a respected and experienced political figure, especially one who has retired from active politics
Example
The former president is now an elder statesman, advising the current administration.
the care provided to elderly people, especially those who are unable to care for themselves
Example
The government needs to invest more in elder care facilities.
Origins of elder
from Old English 'ellærn', meaning 'elder tree'
Summary: elder in Brief
The term 'elder' [ˈɛldər] refers to a person who is older than you are, or a leader or senior figure in a tribe or community. It can be used to describe family members, like 'My elder sister is a doctor,' or leaders, like 'The council of elders made the final decision.' 'Elder' extends into phrases like 'be one's elder,' and idioms like 'respect your elders,' denoting the importance of showing respect to older people.
