noun

doyen

DOY-un/ˈdɔɪən/

A leading member of a group respected for long experience.

The sculptors watch their doyen make a precise finishing adjustment to the bust.

A group of experienced sculptors gathers around its visibly oldest colleague as he makes a precise finishing adjustment to a clay bust.

Etymology

A decanus originally commanded ten soldiers and also headed a group of ten monks. The title broadened from leadership of a group to seniority within it, giving doyen its sense of an established, respected member.

More examples

She is widely regarded as the doyen of American food writers.
Even the doyens of the profession welcome his fresh approach.
After fifty years onstage, he remains the doyen of the local theater community.

Forms

doyen · doyens

doyenne noun — A woman respected for long experience.

Similar words

veteran: Emphasizes long experience without necessarily implying leadership or special esteem.
elder: Emphasizes age and standing within a community rather than professional expertise.