Elder (adjective)

1. Relating to a more advanced stage of life, older.
2. Relating to or being a person who is older and has a higher rank or status.
3. Relating to a person who is older and has greater experience.

Origin:

The old english word 'ealdor' means 'head of a family, chief, senior'. the word was later adopted into middle english as 'elder'.

Examples:

1. Her elder sister was a retired schoolteacher.
2. He took over as the elder statesman of the party.
3. The elder men in the village were respected for their wisdom.
4. He looked up to his elder brother as a mentor.
5. As the elder member of the team, she was responsible for training the new hires.