The meaning of SENILE is of, relating to, exhibiting, or characteristic of old age; especially, sometimes disparaging + offensive : exhibiting a decline of cognitive abilities (such as memory) associated with old age. "Senile" and "senility," though, are more commonly used to describe age-related cognitive decline—as in senile Alzheimer's, senile dementia, and senile plaques. SENILE definition: 1.

Understanding the Context

showing poor mental ability because of old age, especially being unable to think clearly and…. Learn more. If old people become senile, they become confused, can no longer remember things, and are unable to look after themselves. senile, adj.

Key Insights

meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary senile (ˈsiːnaɪl) adj 1. of, relating to, or characteristic of old age 2. mentally or physically weak or infirm on account of old age Senile is the term used to describe an individual who experiences senility due to old age. The word "senility" means the state of both physical and mental decline associated with old age. Senility is commonly seen among the elderly.

Final Thoughts

The concept of senility is also commonly compared to dementia. Adjective senile (comparative more senile, superlative most senile) Of, or relating to old age.