Definition of geezer

The term "geezer" originated in the UK in the late 1950s as part of the slang vocabulary of teenagers and young adults. The exact origin of the word is unclear, but it is believed to have come from the Yiddish word "gederer", which translates to "old fellow" or "elder". Some theories suggest that "geezer" could have also been a reworking of "sedgier", a disparaging term used in Yorkshire dialect meaning "loafers" or "idlers". Regardless of its exact origin, "geezer" became popular in the UK during the post-war boom in youth culture and has since been adopted by speakers around the world. Initially, it was used pejoratively to describe middle-aged men, particularly those who were perceived as outdated or ill-informed. However, over time, the term has become less derogatory and is now often used to describe anyone who is older or particularly traditional. In modern usage, "geezer" has become associated with a range of connotations, from nostalgia and affectionate teasing to a sense of humorous irony. It is frequently used in popular culture, particularly in music and comedy, to reflect attitudes towards aging and the changing nature of social norms. Despite its origins in British slang, "geezer" has now made its way into the lexicons of many English-speaking communities around the world.