having lived for many years; no longer young
My grandfather is eighty years old but still rides his bike every day.
The puppy will grow old someday, but right now it loves to play.
✦ From Old English eald, of Germanic origin.
existing or used for a long time; not new
I still wear my old jacket when it rains.
That museum keeps many old coins from ancient Rome.
former; having existed in an earlier time or filling a previous role
Maria visited her old school last weekend.
He met his old boss at a business conference.
used to show affection, familiarity, or emphasis, often before a noun
Come on, old buddy, let’s grab a coffee!
That old dog of hers is still the best at catching frisbees.
people who are advanced in age, considered as a group
The city built ramps so the old can enter buses more easily.
Parks often provide gentle exercise classes for the old.
oldest, typically referring to the oldest sibling or member of a family.
Ben is the eldest in his family of five children.
The eldest son inherited the family farm.
✦ From Middle English eldest, eldeste, from Old English ieldesta, superlative of ield (“old age, seniority”).
the oldest person, especially the oldest sibling.
The eldest will speak first at the meeting.
Give it to the eldest.
