The Origins of "Sexagenarian"
The most direct and formal answer to what is 60 years old also called is a sexagenarian. This word's roots can be traced back to the Latin term sexāgēnārius, which means “sixty each” or “containing sixty”. The prefix sexa- translates to sixty, following a logical pattern with other age-related terms for decades:
- Denarian: A person aged 10-19.
- Vicenarian: A person aged 20-29.
- Tricenarian: A person aged 30-39.
- Quadragenarian: A person aged 40-49.
- Quinquagenarian: A person aged 50-59.
- Sexagenarian: A person aged 60-69.
- Septuagenarian: A person aged 70-79.
- Octogenarian: A person aged 80-89.
- Nonagenarian: A person aged 90-99.
- Centenarian: A person aged 100-109.
While this list provides a systematic naming convention, many of these terms are not commonly used in everyday language, with the exception of older decades like octogenarian and nonagenarian.
Milestone celebrations for 60 years old
The 60-year milestone is celebrated differently depending on the culture and context. In some traditions, it represents a new beginning or a completion of a life cycle.
The Chinese 60-year life cycle
In Chinese culture, turning 60 is an especially significant birthday because it marks the completion of a full cycle on the Chinese zodiac calendar. The calendar system combines 12 zodiac animals with 5 natural elements (metal, fire, water, earth, and wood), which results in a 60-year cycle. The 61st birthday is then considered the start of a new life cycle, and celebrations often feature long noodles to symbolize longevity.
The Korean 'Hwan-gap'
Korea also observes a significant 60th birthday celebration known as 'hwan-gap'. Historically, this marked the transition from working life to retirement, where the person would shift from being the primary wage earner to an advisory role within the family. The festivities are a sign of great respect for the person's life and accomplishments.
Contextual meanings for turning 60
Apart from the formal term, other expressions and milestones refer to a 60-year period, with meanings that depend on the specific context.
60th Wedding Anniversary: The Diamond Anniversary
A 60-year wedding anniversary is famously known as the Diamond Anniversary. This tradition was notably popularized by Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee in 1897, which marked 60 years on the throne and inspired the association of the diamond with this long-standing milestone. The diamond is an apt symbol for the occasion, representing the strength, resilience, and endurance of a marriage that has lasted six decades.
Personal 60th Birthday: The Diamond Birthday
While the term Diamond Anniversary is common, some people also refer to their own 60th birthday as a Diamond Birthday. This is different from a Golden Birthday, which is when a person's age matches the date of their birth (e.g., turning 25 on the 25th). A Diamond Birthday is simply an alternative, celebratory name for the 60-year milestone, often reflected in party themes with silver and iridescent white decor to mimic the sparkle of diamonds.
The biblical meaning of 60
In biblical numerology, the number 60 can symbolize completeness or a significant measure of time. It is used in various contexts, from measurements of the Temple to the age of biblical figures like Isaac when he became a father, suggesting a period of waiting or preparation before a significant event.
Comparison of Terms for a 60-Year Milestone
| Term | Context | Origin | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sexagenarian | A person's age (60-69 years old) | Latin (sexāgēnārius) | Formal, technical term for someone in their sixties. |
| Diamond Anniversary | 60 years of marriage | Modern Royal Tradition (Queen Victoria's Jubilee) | Symbolizes the strength, endurance, and longevity of a marriage. |
| Diamond Birthday | An individual's 60th birthday | Cultural/Celebratory | A modern, celebratory name for a 60th birthday, emphasizing its preciousness. |
| Hwan-gap | 60th birthday in Korea | Korean tradition | Marks the transition into old age, retirement, and an advisory family role. |
| Completing the Zodiac Cycle | 60th birthday in China | Chinese tradition | Symbolizes the completion of a full 60-year astrological cycle and a new life beginning. |
The start of your "Golden Years"
For many in Western cultures, turning 60 is also seen as the start of their golden years. This informal term refers to the period of life after retirement when people typically have more time for leisure and travel. It is an optimistic term that focuses on the positive aspects of aging, suggesting a rewarding and golden period filled with newfound freedom and personal pursuits.
What turning 60 means today
Today, the significance of turning 60 is more personal than ever. With increasing lifespans and a shift in societal views on aging, 60 is no longer simply associated with retirement. Many people in their sixties remain active in their careers, pursue new hobbies, or volunteer in their communities. Instead of a singular definition, the modern 60-year-old is a blend of all these traditional and contemporary ideas—a sexagenarian embarking on a new chapter with the wisdom and experience of a diamond jubilee.
Conclusion
In summary, while the most formal answer to what is 60 years old also called is a sexagenarian, a more complete answer recognizes the many cultural and contextual names associated with this milestone. Whether celebrating a Diamond Anniversary for a marriage, a Diamond Birthday for oneself, or completing a life cycle in Chinese tradition, the age of 60 is widely recognized as a significant and meaningful turning point in life. Its rich tapestry of names reflects the blend of tradition, longevity, and new beginnings that come with reaching this remarkable age.
The importance of celebrating 60
The various names and traditions associated with turning 60 highlight the importance of recognizing and celebrating this stage of life. It's a time for reflection on past achievements, celebration of enduring relationships, and an anticipation of future adventures in what are often called the golden years. Choosing to refer to this milestone as a Diamond Birthday or acknowledging the completion of a life cycle adds depth and meaning to the occasion, making it a truly special celebration for the individual and their loved ones.
How to make the most of your sixties
For those entering their sixth decade, the names associated with this age can be an inspiration. By embracing the strength of the "diamond," the wisdom of the "hwan-gap," and the promise of the "golden years," a person can approach this new chapter with purpose and positivity. Learning a new skill, reconnecting with family, and pursuing lifelong passions are just a few ways to make the most of this significant milestone.
A note on the language of aging
In some cultures, older people are treated with great reverence and given terms of respect, like "elders" in certain indigenous cultures. In Western cultures, while less formal names might exist, the emphasis has shifted toward celebrating age rather than simply categorizing it. The multiple ways to describe being 60, from formal Latin terms to celebratory nicknames, reflect a rich and evolving view of what it means to grow older.
Honoring 60 years with appreciation
Whether you use the term sexagenarian, Diamond Birthday, or simply celebrate the "Big 6-0," the core message is one of honoring a life well-lived. This milestone provides an opportunity for family and friends to show appreciation and respect for the journey so far. It's a testament to the fact that reaching the age of 60 is a significant achievement worthy of celebration and recognition.
