pensioner

[pen-shuh-ner]

noun

1. a person who receives or lives on a pension.

2. a person who works only for pay without regard to the value of the work; a hireling.

3. a student at Cambridge University who pays the cost to dine in the commons and other expenses, and is not supported by any foundation.

4. Obsolete.,  a gentleman-at-arms.

ˈpensioner

/ ˈpɛnʃənə /

noun

1. a person who is receiving a pension, esp an old-age pension from the state

2. a person dependent on the pay or bounty of another

3. obsolete,  another name for gentleman-at-arms

Other Word Forms

• pensionership noun
• nonpensioner noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pensioner¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English; from Anglo-French; pension, + -er ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

"You try to take a Murray mint off a pensioner - uproar. But we've closed thousands of youth clubs. It's a national disaster."

From BBC

Support for pensioners through the winter fuel payment was initially slashed by the government, a move that led to a significant u-turn.

From BBC

Only pensioners with an annual income of £35,000 or less will be eligible for the payment.

From BBC

She said the government should widen the availability of grants to include pensioners and those on middle incomes.

From BBC

However, for students, pensioners or others not seeking work, having a digital ID will be optional.

From BBC

Related Words

• beneficiary 
• dependent