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Gerontocracy is a noun that refers to a government ruled by the elderly.
The Greek word geron (Jer ON) means ‘old man,’ while the suffix C-R-A-C-Y — also seen in words like democracy, plutocracy and meritocracy — refers to ‘power’ or ‘rule.’ Gerontocracy has been around since the mid19th century. Here’s an example:
With all those city council members in their sixties and seventies, I’m beginning to think our city is run by a gerontocracy. I have nothing against the elderly, I’m just worried that I’ll have to wait too long before it’s my turn to have any power.
By Word of the Day4.3
2020 ratings
Gerontocracy is a noun that refers to a government ruled by the elderly.
The Greek word geron (Jer ON) means ‘old man,’ while the suffix C-R-A-C-Y — also seen in words like democracy, plutocracy and meritocracy — refers to ‘power’ or ‘rule.’ Gerontocracy has been around since the mid19th century. Here’s an example:
With all those city council members in their sixties and seventies, I’m beginning to think our city is run by a gerontocracy. I have nothing against the elderly, I’m just worried that I’ll have to wait too long before it’s my turn to have any power.

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