Definition

1. Adjective (Comparative form of 'old'):
   • Having lived or existed for a greater length of time: Used to compare the age of two or more entities, indicating one has a greater age than another.
   • Of an earlier or previous time: Denoting something from a prior period or generation.
   • Used to distinguish between two related people with the same name: Specifically indicates the elder of the two, such as a father versus a son.

Usage and Examples

• Basic Comparative Usage:

  • My brother is older than me by three years.
  • This building is much older than the one across the street.

• Referring to People with Experience or Advanced Age:

  • The older employees mentored the new hires.
  • She sought advice from an older and wiser friend.

• Distinguishing Between Namesakes:

  • William Jones, Older, attended the meeting with his son. (Note: 'Sr.' is the more common abbreviation, but 'Older' can be used descriptively in this context).

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "older" vs. "elder": While both compare age, 'elder' is often used specifically for people, particularly within a family or group, and can imply seniority or respect. 'Older' is the more general, neutral comparative form applicable to people, animals, and objects.

  • My elder sister advised me. (Focus on familial seniority)
  • This is the older of the two models. (General age comparison)

• Implicit Comparison: Often used where the second item in the comparison is implied or stated earlier.

  • Between the two paintings, I prefer the older one.

Variants and Related Words

• Old (adj): The base form, meaning having lived for a long time or no longer young.
• Oldest (adj): The superlative form, meaning having the greatest age among three or more.
• Elder (adj, n): Used for people, often in family contexts (e.g., elder brother) or to denote seniority.
• Senior (adj, n): Of a higher age or longer service; often used formally (e.g., senior citizen).

Synonyms

• More advanced in years
• Elder (for people)
• Senior

Antonyms

• Younger
• Junior

Common Phrases and Constructions

• Older than: The standard comparative structure.

  • He looks older than his actual age.

• Get/Grow older: To age, to become older.

  • As we get older, our perspectives often change.

• The older generation: Refers to people from a previous era.

  • We can learn much from the older generation.

Adjective

1. skilled through long experience
   • an old offender
   • the older soldiers
2. used of the older of two persons of the same name especially used to distinguish a father from his son
   • Bill Adams, Sr.
3. advanced in years; (`aged' is pronounced as two syllables)
   • aged members of the society
   • elderly residents could remember the construction of the first skyscraper
   • senior citizen