Emeriti

/ɛməˈriːti/ noun

Definition

The plural of emeritus, referring to multiple men (or mixed groups) who have retired from positions of honor while keeping their titles.

Etymology

Direct plural form from Latin emeriti, masculine plural of emeritus. Commonly used in academic institutions to refer to retired professors collectively.

Kelly Says

'Emeriti' is one of the few Latin plurals we still use in everyday English—we don't say 'emerituses,' showing Latin's continuing influence in academic culture.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Emeriti is the masculine plural of emeritus in Latin, historically used in English for groups of retired academics. It excludes emerita (feminine singular), masking women retirees under masculine plurals.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'retired faculty' or 'emeritus faculty' (applying emeritus as gender-neutral). If emeriti/emeritae distinction persists, use parallel gendered forms or specify: 'emeriti and emeritae.'

Inclusive Alternatives

["retired faculty","professors emeritus","retired scholars"]

Empowerment Note

When women are included in emeriti groups, naming this explicitly (emeritae or 'women and men emeriti') acknowledges historically overlooked female scholars.

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