emeritus
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɪˈmɛrɪtəs/
KK: /ɪˈmɛrɪtəs/
adjective
Definition
A term used to describe someone who has retired from a position but still holds an honorary title related to that position.
Example
The university awarded him the title of professor emeritus after his retirement.
Conversation
Did you hear that Professor Smith is now emeritus?
Yeah, I saw that in the newsletter; it’s about time he got that title.
It's impressive how much he contributed before retiring as a full-time professor.
Absolutely! He really deserves that emeritus status for all his hard work.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
retired
honorary
distinguished
Antonyms
active
current
engaged
noun
Definition
A person who has retired from a professional position but still holds an honorary title related to that position.
Example
After many years of teaching, Professor Smith was named emeritus and continued to advise students.
Conversation
Did you hear that Professor Smith is now emeritus?
Yeah, I heard he finally retired after all those years of teaching.
It's great that he gets to keep that honorary title.
Root Explanation
Emeritus is derived from the Latin "emeritus" (meaning earned or deserved), which is the past participle of "emerere" (meaning to earn or to deserve). The term originally referred to someone who has earned their retirement or honor after a long service, particularly in a professional or academic context.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who has 'earned' ('emerere') their status after years of service — that's why 'emeritus' refers to a retired person who has earned respect.
Visually Confused Words
temeritous
demerit