How does the MLA use emeritus and emerita?

Note: This post relates to content in the eighth edition of the MLA Handbook. For up-to-date guidance, see the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook.

In its publications the MLA follows Merriam-Webster, allowing the inflected forms emeritus to refer to a man or woman, emerita to refer to a woman, and emeriti to refer to a plural group. When individuals state a preference for emeritus or emerita, however, we follow their preference.