DOTAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Dotage refers to the state of experiencing old age, especially when it comes to mental decline or infirmity. It is a noun that describes the period in a person's life when they are elderly and have grown feeble or weak, often resulting in a diminished capacity for thinking, understanding, or remembering. It is a condition associated with the depletion of both physical and mental faculties due to advanced age.
In particular, dotage commonly implies a state of senility or a decline in cognitive abilities, leading to forgetfulness, confusion, and a general deterioration of mental functions. This term is often used to describe the end stage of a person's life, where old age has taken a toll on their physical and mental well-being, making them vulnerable and dependent on others for their daily needs.
Additionally, dotage can also refer to the indulgent or foolish behavior that is often associated with aging individuals. This aspect of dotage implies a lack of judgment or reasoning due to old age and senility. It suggests a person may exhibit childlike traits, vulnerability, or an inclination to make poor decisions.
Overall, dotage is a term that encompasses the physical and mental decline that typically accompanies old age, highlighting the fragility and reduced faculties of elderly individuals.
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The childishness of age; feebleness of mind in old age.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for DOTAGE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for DOTAGE
Etymology of DOTAGE
The word "dotage" originated from Old French "dote" meaning "foolishness" or "stupidity". It comes from the Latin word "dōtāre" which means "to endow" or "to provide with a dowry". Over time, the meaning of "dotage" evolved to refer to the mental decline associated with old age, or senility.
Idioms with the word DOTAGE
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be in (one's) dotage
The idiom "be in (one's) dotage" refers to the state of being mentally or physically weak due to old age. It suggests that someone has become senile or feeble-minded as a result of advanced age.
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in (one's) dotage
The idiom "in (one's) dotage" refers to the state or period in someone's life when they are elderly, senile, or mentally and physically declining due to old age. It suggests that a person is no longer as sharp, active, or capable as they once were.
Similar spelling words for DOTAGE
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