What does it mean to be a septuagenarian?
While most people don't use this term in everyday conversation, it is the formal name for a person in their seventies. A septuagenarian is anyone between the ages of 70 and 79. The term is derived from Latin, and similar designations exist for other decades of life:
- Denarian: a person aged 10 to 19.
- Vicenarian: a person aged 20 to 29.
- Tricenarian: a person aged 30 to 39.
- Quadragenarian: a person aged 40 to 49.
- Quinquagenarian: a person aged 50 to 59.
- Sexagenarian: a person aged 60 to 69.
- Octogenarian: a person aged 80 to 89.
- Nonagenarian: a person aged 90 to 99.
- Centenarian: a person aged 100 or older.
This system of naming decades provides a formal, slightly old-fashioned, way to refer to age groups, with the terms becoming more commonly used for those in their later years.
The platinum jubilee for royalty and individuals
While jubilees are most famously associated with royal anniversaries, the concept has been adopted for celebrating personal milestones.
- Royal Connection: In 2022, Queen Elizabeth II became the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years on the throne. This highly publicized event solidified the association of 70 years with the precious metal platinum.
- Personal Application: As a result, throwing a platinum-themed party is a popular and elegant way to celebrate a 70th birthday. The rarity, endurance, and precious nature of platinum are the perfect symbols for a long, well-lived life.
Comparison: Birthday Names vs. Anniversary Symbols
While anniversaries have long-established traditional and modern gifts associated with them, birthday names are less commonly known. Here is a quick comparison:
| Feature | 70th Birthday | 70th Wedding Anniversary |
|---|---|---|
| Formal Name | Septuagenarian | Platinum Anniversary |
| Symbolic Material | Platinum | Platinum |
| Significance of Material | Symbolizes a long, rare, and precious life. | Represents enduring, resilient, and rare love. |
| Traditional Gift | N/A (gifts are personal) | Platinum |
| Modern Gift | N/A (gifts are personal) | Afternoon tea party |
| Associated Flower | N/A | Peony rose |
| Associated Gemstone | N/A | Smoky crystal |
Celebrating the milestone of 70
Whether you use the formal name septuagenarian, host a lavish platinum jubilee party, or simply call it a 70th birthday, reaching this age is a significant achievement. Celebrations for this milestone are often deeply personal and focused on the individual's life and legacy. Ideas for commemorating this special birthday include:
- Themed Party: A '70s-themed party can be a fun throwback to the guest of honor's younger years, or a sophisticated 'platinum' theme can add a touch of elegance.
- Travel Adventure: For the adventurous septuagenarian, a destination birthday or a hot air balloon ride offers new memories.
- Family Reunion: Gathering multiple generations for a family reunion is a popular and meaningful way to celebrate a life well-lived.
- Memory Lane: A slideshow of photos, home videos, or a personalized newspaper book can be a touching tribute.
- Thoughtful Gifts: Gifts often focus on comfort, hobbies, or sentimental value, such as a custom photo collage, a family tree sign, or a subscription box.
Conclusion: A milestone by any other name
Ultimately, the true significance of a 70th birthday lies not in its official name but in the opportunity it presents for reflection, gratitude, and celebration. While 'septuagenarian' offers a formal designation and the 'platinum jubilee' provides a memorable theme, the most important aspect is honoring the person and their decades of experiences. Whether it's a quiet gathering or a grand affair, celebrating the 70th milestone is a chance to show appreciation for a long, precious, and valuable life.
Visit the Britannica Dictionary to learn more about names for ages by decade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is turning 70 a milestone birthday?
Yes, a 70th birthday is considered a significant milestone and is often celebrated as such, marking seven decades of life.
What does platinum symbolize for a 70th birthday?
As a 70th birthday theme, platinum symbolizes endurance, strength, and the rare and precious nature of reaching this important milestone.
Why is a 70th birthday called a platinum jubilee?
The 70th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's accession to the throne was called a Platinum Jubilee. This has influenced the adoption of the term for celebrating a 70th birthday in a similar, celebratory fashion.
How is a 70th birthday celebrated?
Celebrations vary widely but can include themed parties (like a platinum or '70s party), a quiet gathering with family, a special trip, a video tribute, or a dinner with loved ones.
Is septuagenarian the only special name for a 70th birthday?
Septuagenarian is the formal, technical term for a person in their seventies. Platinum jubilee is a more celebratory name, derived from royal anniversaries, used for a 70th birthday party theme.
Is there a specific color for a 70th birthday?
While not universal, a platinum or silver color scheme is popular for a 70th birthday celebration, mirroring the platinum jubilee theme.
What is a good gift for a 70th birthday?
Gift ideas can range from sentimental items like a personalized photo book or family portrait to experiential gifts such as a trip, a cooking class, or a spa day. Many prefer meaningful experiences over material possessions at this age.
