Describes people who are old, usually past middle age, often needing more care and support. It is more polite and respectful than simply saying 'old.'
From Middle English 'elder' meaning 'older,' plus the suffix '-ly' forming an adjective. 'Elder' itself comes from Old English 'ieldra,' the comparative of 'eald' meaning 'old.' The word gradually shifted from just 'older' to specifically referring to people of advanced age.
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