Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

mzee

noun
/ɛmˈzeɪ/
Definition
An elderly person, often used with respect in East African cultures.
Examples
  • After many years of hard work, the mzee was finally able to retire and spend time with his family.
  • Everyone sought the advice of the mzee in matters of community leadership.
  • The mzee shared stories of his youth, captivating the young listeners around the fire.
Meaning
The term ‘mzee’ is derived from Swahili and translates to ‘old person’ or ‘elder’. It conveys a sense of respect and deference towards someone who has lived a long life and is often seen as a source of wisdom and guidance.
Synonyms
  • elder
  • senior
  • sage
  • patriarch