1. of, relating to, or characteristic of a system of government or society controlled by the elderly
Usage: formal; often used in political or sociological contexts

Examples

• The gerontocratic structure of the organization meant that younger members had little influence in decision-making.
• Critics argued that the gerontocratic nature of the Senate limited fresh perspectives on policy.
• Some scholars describe certain traditional societies as gerontocratic, with elders holding supreme authority.
• The gerontocratic leadership resisted modernization efforts proposed by younger staff members.
• In a gerontocratic system, age and experience are valued above innovation and new ideas.