elder

/ˈeldə/noun

An older, respected member of a community or tribe who is looked to for advice, guidance, or ceremonial duties.

Example sentences

“The dispute was settled by a council of village elders.”
“The tribal elders met at sunset to choose a new chief.”

'Elder' compares within a family, as in 'the elder sister'; 'older' is the general-purpose word. As a noun it confers respect.

Often confused with elder

elder vs elderly: elderly (adjective): Fairly old; describing a person who has reached the later years of life.

Related words

ancestorA family member from past generations, on either parent's side, from whom a person is descended.adultSomeone who is old enough to be legally considered grown up.generationAll the people born around the same time, who often share similar experiences and culture.teenagerA young person aged from thirteen to nineteen.childhoodThe stage of life between being a baby and becoming a teenager.toddlerA small child, usually between one and three years old, who can walk but is still a bit unsteady on their feet.