all ages

English

Etymology

Ellipsis of for people of all ages

Adjective

all ages (not comparable)

1. (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