Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈe͡ɪbi͡əd] (IPA) 
The word greybeard is spelled with an 'e' between 'g' and 'r' in British English, while it is spelled with an 'a' in American English. The reason for this is due to the different ways of pronouncing the word. The IPA phonetic transcription for 'grey' is /ɡreɪ/ and for 'beard' is /bɪəd/. Therefore, in British English, the 'e' is used to indicate a long sound of the letter 'e' in 'grey', which is not present in American English.
Greybeard is a noun that refers to an older or elderly man, typically characterized by a long or white beard. The term is figurative and often used in a respectful or reverential manner to denote wisdom, experience, and sagacity attributed to individuals of advanced age. The word "greybeard" is derived from the combination of "grey," which symbolizes the color of the beard or hair turned grey due to aging, and "beard," which represents the facial hair on a man's chin and cheeks.
The term "greybeard" can also be used as an adjective to describe someone who possesses the attributes commonly associated with older and wiser individuals. Greybeards are often regarded as authoritative figures who have acquired profound knowledge or expertise in a particular field over a substantial period. They are recognized for their counsel, guidance, and extensive life experience, which are frequently sought after by younger generations, necessitating their profound respect.
Metaphorically, the term can be extended to individuals other than men who exhibit similar characteristics, regardless of age or gender. In this context, "greybeard" signifies a person who is esteemed for their wisdom, regardless of their physical appearance or age. The conceptualization of a "greybeard" therefore encompasses both a literal description of a man with a grey or long beard as well as a metaphorical representation of an individual who embodies wisdom and experience.
An old man; a large coarse earthenware vessel for holding liquors; formerly stoneware drinking-jugs having a bearded face on the spout; the preceding.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "greybeard" is composed of two elements: "grey" and "beard".
The term "grey" comes from the Old English word "grǣg", which means "grey" or "gray". It originated from the Proto-Germanic word "grēwaz". Over time, it evolved and was used to describe a color that is intermediate between black and white, specifically referring to hair turning grey as a result of age.
The word "beard" comes from the Old English word "beard", which has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "bardaz". It has been used to refer to the hair that grows on a man's chin and cheeks.
So, "greybeard" combines these two elements to describe an older man whose beard has turned grey due to age, often implying wisdom or experience.
