Decades of a life: The naming convention
The word septuagenarian is part of a larger, fascinating system of Latin-derived terms used to refer to people in each decade of their life. This practice offers a structured and formal way to categorize age groups, though many of the terms are rarely used outside of specific, formal contexts. Understanding this system provides insight into the historical and linguistic roots of how we classify human development stages.
The "-arian" suffix
Many of these decade-specific age names follow a pattern, using a Latin numeral prefix combined with the suffix "-arian". The prefix septuageni means "seventy each," forming the basis for septuagenarian. This pattern is consistent across several other age decades:
- Denarian: someone aged 10-19.
- Vicenarian: someone aged 20-29.
- Tricenarian: someone aged 30-39.
- Quadragenarian: someone aged 40-49.
- Quinquagenarian: someone aged 50-59.
- Sexagenarian: someone aged 60-69.
- Octogenarian: someone aged 80-89.
- Nonagenarian: someone aged 90-99.
- Centenarian: someone 100 years or older.
- Supercentenarian: someone 110 years or older.
Formal vs. informal terms for a 70-year-old
While septuagenarian is the precise and formal term, it is not common in everyday speech. In casual conversation, people typically use other, more widely understood phrases. Organizations like the American Medical Association and the Associated Press have also established guidelines for age-inclusive language, recommending terms that avoid stereotypes.
Comparison of terms
| Term | Connotation | Context of Use | Examples of Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Septuagenarian | Formal, precise, specific decade | Academic, literary, or medical writing | "The study included a group of healthy septuagenarians." |
| Senior Citizen | General, widely understood, polite | Casual conversation, marketing, government programs | "Senior citizens are eligible for a discount." |
| Older Adult | Respectful, age-inclusive, neutral | Clinical settings, official communications | "Older adults may face unique health challenges." |
| Seventy-something | Informal, colloquial, approximate | Conversational, informal writing | "My dad is a seventy-something now and loves to travel." |
The context of use
The choice of how to refer to a person turning 70 often depends on the context of the conversation. Using the correct terminology shows respect and an understanding of the nuances of language. In formal writing, the specific and clear term septuagenarian can be effective, particularly when discussing demographics or health studies. In social settings, however, using a person's name or more general, respectful terms like "older adult" is often more appropriate and less likely to be perceived as formal or distant.
Honoring the milestone: The 70th birthday
Apart from personal descriptors, a 70th birthday is recognized as a significant life event. It is often referred to as a Platinum Jubilee, reflecting the rarity and value of reaching this age milestone. This association with platinum, a precious and expensive metal, highlights the enduring nature of a life that has reached this point. Celebrations can take many forms, from large parties with family and friends to more intimate gatherings.
Conclusion
For anyone asking what is a person turning 70 called, the formal answer is a septuagenarian. However, the best way to refer to an individual is by their name, or using modern, respectful terms like older adult. The array of available terms, from the scientific septuagenarian to the general senior citizen and the affectionate seventy-something, provides flexibility in how we communicate. The 70th birthday, marked as a Platinum Jubilee, is a testament to a life of endurance and wisdom, celebrated differently by each person. Understanding the terminology not only enriches our vocabulary but also encourages respectful, age-inclusive language. For further reading, resources like the Britannica Dictionary on age by decade offer excellent insights into these linguistic patterns.
