ENGLISH
REFERENCE

elders

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɛɫdɝz// UK //ˈɛldəz// el·ders

n. people who are older than you, especially those who have a high position or deserve respect in a family or community. You often listen to them for advice because of their long experience.

n. people of greater age or seniority within a specific group, family, or society. Often implies a status of authority or wisdom derived from life experience and cultural standing.


SIMPLE

You should always show respect to your elders.

CONTEXTUAL

In many traditional cultures, the community elders make the final decisions regarding land disputes and local laws.

COMPLEX

The preservation of oral history depends entirely on the younger generation's willingness to sit with their elders and document the stories of their ancestors.

Synonyms
Usage

Almost always used in the plural form when referring to a group of older people; the singular 'elder' is more common as a title or comparison.

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