elderly person

[/ˈɛldərli ˈpɜrsən/]
nounpl: elderly people
idoso/idosa
1. A person who is old, typically considered to be 65 years of age or older
The elderly person crossed the street carefully with their cane.
O idoso atravessou a rua com cuidado com sua bengala.
2. An aged individual requiring or deserving respect and care
We should always help an elderly person carry their groceries.
Devemos sempre ajudar um idoso a carregar suas compras.
In Brazil, 'idoso' is the respectful and widely-used term in formal contexts, healthcare, and legislation. The diminutive 'velhinho/velhinha' is common in casual family settings with affection. In Portugal, 'velho' alone can be considered disrespectful, so 'pessoa idosa' is preferred. In the USA and English-speaking countries, 'elderly person' and 'senior citizen' are standard, though 'elderly' is declining in favor of more neutral terms like 'older adult' in contemporary usage.
NYC Slang
senior, old timer, golden ager
Synonyms / Sinônimos
senior citizenaged personolder adultseniorpensioner
Antonyms / Antônimos
young personchildyouthteenager

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
idoso/idosa
Most common and formal term used throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
velhinho/velhinha
More informal and affectionate diminutive form, common in casual speech
São Paulo
idoso/idosa
Formal standard term, preferred in official and professional contexts
Portugal
pessoa idosa/idoso
More formal phrasing; 'velho' can be considered offensive

Related Words

elderlyagingretirementgeriatricpensionersenior

Related Idioms & Phrases

respect your elders
golden years
second childhood
wisdom of age
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