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Definition of gerontologist
gerontologist
/ˌdʒɛr.ənˈtɑː.lə.dʒɪst/
ger · on · tol · o · gist
Adverb:gerontologically
•Plural:gerontologists
•Adjective:gerontological
gerontologist Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
12
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
Syllables
5
gerontologist Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
A scientist or healthcare specialist who studies the biological, psychological, and social processes of aging and the challenges faced by older adults.
Example
"The university hired a leading gerontologist to research the effects of community engagement on cognitive longevity in retirees."
Word Nuance & Usage
A gerontologist studies the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging (often in a research or policy capacity), whereas a geriatrician is specifically a licensed medical doctor who treats elderly patients.
• Rhymes for gerontologist
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the early 20th century from 'gerontology' plus the agent suffix '-ist', derived from the Ancient Greek 'gerōn' (stem 'geront-'), meaning 'old man', and '-logia', meaning 'study of'.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Gerontologist. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/gerontologist