noun
temporary coaching status for a retired wrestler
A sumo-specific rank: a retired wrestler who temporarily retains elder-like coaching privileges for a limited period (usually one tournament) before fully retiring or transitioning to a permanent elder role.
元大関は引退後、準年寄りとして部屋の指導にあたった。
After retiring, the former ōzeki served as a jun-toshiyori and coached at the stable.
準年寄りの資格は一場所限りで、その後は年寄名跡を取得する必要がある。
The jun-toshiyori status lasts only one tournament; after that, the wrestler must acquire an elder stock.
年寄 is a permanent elder rank in sumo, while 準年寄り is a temporary, transitional status with limited coaching rights.
From 準 (jun, 'quasi-') + 年寄り (toshiyori, 'elder' in sumo context). The term reflects a provisional elder status.