emeritus — holding an honorary title after retirement, especially for a professor who retains their title after retiring
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: holding an honorary title after retirement, especially for a professor who retains their title after retiring
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪˈmerɪtəs/
Example Sentences
- The emeritus professor still scares students with his legendary pop quizzes, even though he retired five years ago.
- Dr. Johnson was granted emeritus status after 40 years of distinguished service.
- The chairman emeritus still shows up to every board meeting, much to everyone's surprise.
emeritus
ADJECTIVE[/ɪˈmerɪtəs/]
holding an honorary title after retirement, especially for a professor who retains their title after retiring

The emeritus professor returns to give one final lecture to admiring students.

The emeritus professor's meritorious work shines glorious.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from Latin, this term originally meant 'a person who has retired with honor in recognition of service.' In Roman times, it was used to describe soldiers or administrators who retired honorably after long periods of military or civil service.
Breakdown
emereri (to earn, to serve) + -tus (past participle suffix), literally meaning 'having earned or served.'
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The emeritus professor still scares students with his legendary pop quizzes, even though he retired five years ago.”
“Dr. Johnson was granted emeritus status after 40 years of distinguished service.”
“The chairman emeritus still shows up to every board meeting, much to everyone's surprise.”
“As professor emeritus, she maintains an office on campus and continues her research.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
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