1. people who hold power in a government or organization where older individuals rule or have controlling influence
Usage: political science; plural form

Examples

• The gerontocrats in the senate have held their positions for decades.
• Critics argued that the company was run by gerontocrats who resisted technological change.
• The political system seemed dominated by gerontocrats unwilling to pass leadership to younger generations.
• Many voters called for term limits to reduce the influence of gerontocrats in Congress.
• The organization’s gerontocrats maintained traditional policies despite calls for reform.
• Young activists challenged the gerontocrats who controlled the party leadership.