A senior or elderly man; historically, an official or nobleman of advanced age with authority.
From Old English 'elder' (comparative of 'eald' meaning old) plus 'man.' The compound emerged to describe both age and position, used in various civic contexts across English-speaking regions.
The title 'alderman' (variant of elderman) still exists in some British and American cities—an ancient word for authority that has survived centuries of government reorganization.
'-man' suffix historically defaulted to male despite gender-neutral intent; 'elderman' perpetuates assumption that age-leadership roles are male unless specified.
Use 'elder' standalone or 'elder leader' to reference role without gendered suffix.
["elder","elder leader","council member"]
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