all ages
English
Etymology
Ellipsis of for people of all ages
Adjective
all ages (not comparable)
- (chiefly US) open to people of all ages, particularly to children under the age of 18 (of an entertainment event, particularly music or dance)
- There are some all ages contests at the fair.
Usage notes
In the United States, many entertainment events are restricted to those over the drinking age (21+) or to those who are legally adults (18+). An event that is open to those who are legally children – primarily (non-adult) teens (13–17) and sometimes tweens (roughly 8–12) – is referred to as an all ages event. Such an event may or may not be suitable for young children, infants, and babies – if it is, it may be referred to specifically as family friendly.
Coordinate terms
- 18+
- 21+
See also
- family friendly