noun
elderly person with deep knowledge of the past; elder
Refers to an old person who is valued for their knowledge of history, traditions, or events from long ago. More specific than a generic 'elderly person'.
村の古老から昔の話を聞いた。
I heard old stories from an elder of the village.
この地域の伝統は、古老たちによって守られてきた。
The traditions of this region have been preserved by the elders.
Composed of 古 (old, ancient) and 老 (old age, elderly). The combination straightforwardly means 'old person of ancient times' or 'elder with knowledge of the past'.