Definition

1. Noun:
   • A man who is very old: "Methuselah" can refer to any man of extremely advanced age, often used figuratively to denote great longevity.
   • (Biblical) A patriarch: In the Old Testament, Methuselah is a figure described as the grandfather of Noah, renowned for living 969 years, making his name synonymous with extreme old age.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • At 102 years old, the village elder was considered a real Methuselah. (Referring to a man of very great age.)
  • According to the Bible, Methuselah was the oldest man who ever lived. (Referring to the specific biblical patriarch.)

Advanced Usage

• Used as a metaphor: The name is commonly used as a metaphor or epithet for anyone or anything that is remarkably old or has lasted a very long time.
  • That ancient oak tree is a Methuselah of the forest.
  • The veteran actor is a Methuselah of the stage.

Variants and Related Words

• Methuselah-like (adjective): Having the characteristics of Methuselah, i.e., being extremely old or long-lasting.
  • The scientist studied the Methuselah-like tortoises on the island.

Synonyms

• Patriarch: A venerable old man, often the male head of a family or tribe.
• Nonagenarian: A person who is between 90 and 99 years old.
• Centenarian: A person who is 100 years old or older.

Related Phrases

• As old as Methuselah: An idiom meaning extremely old.
  • That folklore tale is as old as Methuselah.

Noun

1. a man who is very old
2. (Old Testament) a patriarch (grandfather of Noah) who is said to have lived 969 years