Dotard

Dotard

A dotard is an elderly person who is perceived to be weak-minded or senile. The term is often used in a pejorative sense to describe someone who is considered to be in a state of mental decline due to old age. The word has its origins in the Middle English term doten, which means to dote or to act foolishly.

Etymology

The term dotard comes from the Middle English word doten, which means to dote or to act foolishly. The suffix -ard is used to form nouns that denote persons who regularly engage in a particular activity or who are characterized by a particular quality.

Usage

The term dotard has been used historically in literature and speech to describe elderly individuals who are perceived to have lost their mental faculties. It is often used in a derogatory manner to imply that the person is no longer capable of rational thought or decision-making.

Historical Context

The use of the term dotard can be traced back to the 14th century. It has appeared in various literary works, including those of William Shakespeare. In modern times, the term gained renewed attention when it was used in a political context to describe a world leader.

Related Terms

• Senility
• Dementia
• Geriatrics
• Ageism

See Also

• Elderly care
• Cognitive decline
• Mental health
• Old age