codger: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal
Quick answer
What does “codger” mean?
An elderly man, especially one who is old-fashioned or eccentric.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An elderly man, especially one who is old-fashioned or eccentric.
Often used affectionately to refer to an old man, though sometimes implying he is set in his ways or a bit of a character. Can be mildly derogatory or neutral depending on context.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Used in both varieties with similar meaning. 'Codger' may be slightly more common in British English, where 'geezer' is also informal for a man. In AmE, 'old codger' is the most typical phrasing.
Connotations
Both: Slightly humorous, informal. It can be affectionate or mildly disrespectful.
Frequency
Low frequency in both, but understood. More likely found in narrative or descriptive contexts than in daily conversation.
Grammar
How to Use “codger” in a Sentence
[determiner] + [adjective] + codgerthe + old + codger + [relative clause]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Would be inappropriate in formal business communication.
Academic
Virtually never used in academic writing.
Everyday
Used in informal storytelling or description. "There's an old codger who lives down the lane who feeds the pigeons."
Technical
Not applicable.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “codger”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “codger”
- Spelling: 'codger' not 'codjer' or 'coger'.
- Using it to refer to a young person.
- Using it in overly formal contexts.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is informal and can be mildly derogatory if used to emphasize someone's irritability or old-fashioned views. However, it is often used affectionately, especially with adjectives like 'lovable' or 'eccentric'. Context and tone are crucial.
No, it is specifically masculine. The equivalent informal term for an elderly woman would be something like 'old biddy' (often derogatory) or 'old dear' (often affectionate).
Its etymology is uncertain. It may be a variant of 'cadger' (a beggar or hawker) or a dialectal word. It emerged in the 18th century.
'Geezer' is also informal for a man but does not inherently imply old age (e.g., 'a funny geezer'). 'Codger' almost always implies elderly status and often eccentricity. In British English, 'geezer' is very common and less age-specific.
An elderly man, especially one who is old-fashioned or eccentric.
Codger is usually informal in register.
Codger: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒdʒ.ə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑː.dʒɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “old codger”
- “miserable old codger”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a COD fishing GERiatric man on a pier – an OLD CODGER set in his ways.
Conceptual Metaphor
OLD PERSON IS AN OLD MACHINE/OBJECT (implies slightly broken-in, quirky functionality).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would 'codger' be MOST appropriate?