dotage etymology

Etymology

The word "dotage" comes from the Old French word "dotage," which in turn comes from the Latin word "dotāre," meaning "to endow or give a dowry."

Meaning

Dotage is a state of senility or mental decline, typically characterized by forgetfulness, impaired judgment, and a lack of awareness. It is considered a symptom of advanced age and is often associated with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Origin

The word "dotage" was first used in English in the 14th century. It originally referred to the giving of a dowry to a daughter at her marriage. Over time, the term came to be applied figuratively to the state of mental decline associated with old age.

Usage

Dotage is a noun that can be used to describe a person's condition or to refer to the condition itself. For example:

• "He was in his dotage, and his memory was failing."
• "Dotage is a common symptom of Alzheimer's disease."

Synonyms

• Senility
• Dementia
• Alzheimer's disease
• Mental decline

dotage relate terms

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