adjective

elderly

Advanced in age.

My elderly neighbor waters her flowers every morning.

Etymology

Elder is an older comparative of old. The adjective ending forms a description of someone whose age is relatively advanced.

More examples

  • The clinic offers home visits for elderly patients.
  • Their elderly dog prefers short walks.
  • She helps her elderly father with the grocery shopping.

Forms

elderly

Similar words

old
Broader and more direct; also describes objects and ideas.
aged
More formal, often suggesting a very advanced age.
senior
Often marks an age category rather than advanced age.