elders; veterans; senior members
Refers to older, experienced members of a group, often with a nuance of wisdom and authority. Can be used in formal or traditional contexts.
The village elders gathered and held a meeting.
As a veteran of the company, he is guiding the younger employees.
Compound of 宿 (long-standing, old) and 老 (old person, elder). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word has been used since classical times to refer to senior, experienced members of a group.