elder

Definition

comparative degree of old: older, greater than another in age or seniority.

Etymology

From Middle English eldre, from Old English eldra, yldra, ieldra, from Proto-Germanic *alþizô. The vowel change from a to e triggered by the following i is called umlaut or I-mutation.

Example Sentences

• "It's typical for elder married couples to live in retirement homes."
• "The elder of the two was also an elder statesman."
• "She removed Stranleigh’s coat with a dexterity that aroused his imagination. The elder woman returned with dressings and a sponge, which she placed on a chair."