Seniors: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in informal or everyday conversations to refer to people who are older in age. It is often used in a respectful manner and can refer to people in their late 50s or older.

• The community center offers many activities for seniors
• Seniors often get discounts on bus fares

A more formal term often used in medical or official contexts when referring to older people, especially those needing care or assistance.

• The elderly gentleman needed help crossing the street
• The hospital has special facilities for the elderly

Specific to people who have stopped working after reaching a certain age. It is focused on the aspect of retirement rather than age itself.

• The retirees enjoy spending their days gardening
• The bank has special accounts designed for retirees

A more affectionate and positive term used to describe older people, emphasizing the positive aspects of aging. Often used in promotional materials or jovial contexts.

• The magazine has a section with lifestyle tips for golden agers
• The club organizes events specifically for golden agers

Used to refer to students in their final year of high school or college. Can also mean older individuals in society.

• The seniors are getting ready for their final exams.
• The community center holds special events for seniors every Tuesday.

Specifically refers to students who are about to graduate. Often used in formal contexts such as ceremonies or official documentation.

• All graduating students must submit their thesis by next week.
• The university will hold a special ceremony for the graduating students.

Refers to students in the higher years of high school (usually junior and senior years) or college (junior and senior years).

• The upperclassmen are responsible for mentoring the freshmen.
• As upperclassmen, they have more course options available to them.