adj
senile
SEE-nyl
Senile (adj) means showing mental decline associated with old age, such as memory loss or confusion. Example: “Her grandfather has become increasingly senile over the past year.”
adj
1
Showing mental decline associated with old age, such as memory loss or confusion.
"Her grandfather has become increasingly senile over the past year."
2
Relating to old age generally.
"The condition causes senile changes in the skin."
How to use senile
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes mental decline that comes with advanced age.
Common mistake
Considered blunt or even offensive when used casually about a person; medical contexts prefer terms like "dementia" or "cognitive decline."
When to use it
Increasingly avoided in polite or clinical usage due to its dismissive tone.
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Word forms
- Plural
- seniles
- Comparative
- more senile
- Superlative
- most senile
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Her grandfather has become increasingly _____ over the past year.
Etymology
From French sénile, from Latin senīlis, "of old age," from senex, "old man."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for senile
See all rhymes for senile →Frequently asked questions
What does “senile” mean?
The word “senile” means showing mental decline associated with old age, such as memory loss or confusion. In plain terms, describes mental decline that comes with advanced age.
How do you pronounce “senile”?
“Senile” is pronounced SEE-nyl (/ˈsinaɪl/ in IPA).
How do you use “senile” in a sentence?
Here is “senile” used in a sentence: “Her grandfather has become increasingly senile over the past year.”
What is the opposite of “senile”?
The opposite of “senile” — its antonyms — is juvenile.
What part of speech is “senile”?
“Senile” is an adjective.
Where does the word “senile” come from?
The word “senile” comes from Latin. From French sénile, from Latin senīlis, "of old age," from senex, "old man.".
How many meanings does “senile” have?
“Senile” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: showing mental decline associated with old age, such as memory loss or confusion.
