old gentleman
The phrase "old gentleman" can have both respectful and humorous connotations, often depending on the context in which it is used.
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Definition
B2General
(respectful, polite)An elderly man who is courteous and refined.
Example
- The old gentleman greeted everyone with a warm smile and a firm handshake.
B2General
(respectful, affectionate)A term of respect for an older man, often implying dignity and wisdom.
Example
- She always spoke highly of her father, referring to him as an old gentleman.
C1British English
(humorous, idiomatic)A jocular name for Satan or the devil.
Example
- In the old stories, they would sometimes call the devil 'the old gentleman.'
C2Card Tricks
(slang, obsolete)A card that is slightly longer than the others, used by cheats.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "old gentleman":
old manold fellowold ladyold chapold womanelder statesmanold folksold timerlittle oldold soldierould fellaold wifeyoung mangentleman usherolder adult