Understanding the formal term: Quinquagenarian
As you search for the formal name associated with turning 50, the term quinquagenarian is the correct, though rarely used, word. Derived from Latin, the term is used to describe a person who is between the ages of 50 and 59. While it may not roll off the tongue for everyday conversation, it adds a touch of sophistication when referring to this significant decade of life.
The Latin roots of age-related terms
The use of Latin-derived words to denote different life stages has a long history, particularly in written language and medical contexts. These terms follow a consistent pattern, with a Latin root indicating the number and a suffix indicating a person. For example, a person in their 40s is a quadragenarian, a person in their 60s is a sexagenarian, and so on. Understanding this pattern provides context for why quinquagenarian is the formal, technical answer to the question, "What is it called when you turn 50 years old?"
Popular celebrations and nicknames
Far more common than the formal term are the celebratory names associated with a 50th birthday. These terms are often used to signify the importance and joy of reaching this milestone. Here are some of the most popular and culturally significant names for turning 50:
- Golden Jubilee: Borrowed from royal celebrations, a golden jubilee marks a 50th anniversary of any significant event, including a birthday. The term emphasizes the value and timelessness associated with reaching this age, much like the precious metal gold.
- Half a Century: This straightforward phrase captures the magnitude of reaching 50 by framing it as completing half of a 100-year cycle. It often prompts reflection on the decades that have passed and anticipation for the years to come.
- Over the Hill: While this phrase can sometimes have a negative connotation, suggesting that one's best years are behind them, it is often used humorously in celebratory contexts. The key is intent; a well-meaning friend might use it to roast you at a party, while a genuine insult would be different. Today, many people reclaim and redefine the term positively.
Table: Decades by their formal names
This table provides a comprehensive look at the formal, Latin-based names for each decade of a person's life. While these terms are not common in daily conversation, they are interesting to know.
| Decade | Formal Term | Derivation | Example Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-19 | Denarian | Latin deni (ten each) | A teen is a denarian |
| 20-29 | Vicenarian | Latin viceni (twenty each) | A twenty-something is a vicenarian |
| 30-39 | Tricenarian | Latin triceni (thirty each) | A person in their mid-30s is a tricenarian |
| 40-49 | Quadragenarian | Latin quadragena (forty each) | A person in their forties is a quadragenarian |
| 50-59 | Quinquagenarian | Latin quinquageni (fifty each) | A person celebrating their 50th is a quinquagenarian |
| 60-69 | Sexagenarian | Latin sexageni (sixty each) | A retiree is a sexagenarian |
| 70-79 | Septuagenarian | Latin septuageni (seventy each) | An elder may be a septuagenarian |
| 80-89 | Octogenarian | Latin octogeni (eighty each) | An octogenarian lives a long, fulfilling life |
| 90-99 | Nonagenarian | Latin nonageni (ninety each) | Few people reach the nonagenarian decade |
| 100+ | Centenarian | Latin centeni (hundred each) | A centenarian celebrates a remarkable milestone |
The significance of turning 50 in healthy aging
Beyond the names, turning 50 is a time for proactive health and wellness. It represents a pivot point, often inspiring people to focus more intentionally on their long-term health. The shift from middle age to a new phase of life involves paying closer attention to physical, mental, and social well-being. This can include taking up new hobbies, prioritizing relationships, and establishing a regular fitness routine.
Health considerations also become more prominent. For many, turning 50 means becoming more aware of potential health risks and preventative measures. This can include conversations with healthcare providers about cholesterol, blood pressure, bone density, and cancer screenings. For women, menopause is a significant transition that often occurs around this time, bringing hormonal changes that require attention and care. The golden jubilee year can be a time of re-evaluation, where individuals reassess their priorities and commitments, leading to a more balanced and intentional life.
Embracing the quinquagenarian decade
Entering your fifties can feel like both an ending and a beginning. Many people experience a newfound freedom and confidence, having accumulated wisdom and experience over five decades. For some, it’s a time to start a new career, travel extensively, or pursue creative passions that were previously sidelined. For others, it's a period of enjoying more time with family, especially grandchildren, and reflecting on a life well-lived.
To make the most of this decade, it's crucial to focus on purpose and passion. Research shows that having a strong sense of purpose in later life is linked to better health outcomes and longevity. Whether through volunteering, mentorship, or dedicating time to a beloved hobby, finding and nurturing passions is key. The quinquagenarian years can be some of the most vibrant and fulfilling of a person's life, full of opportunity for growth, contribution, and joy.
Conclusion So, what is it called when you turn 50 years old? The formal, though infrequently used, term is a quinquagenarian. More commonly, you might hear it referred to as celebrating a golden jubilee or reaching half a century. The importance of this milestone, however, lies not in its name but in the opportunity it presents. It's a time for celebration, reflection, and setting intentions for a healthy and fulfilling next chapter. Whether you call it the fifties, the golden jubilee, or the quinquagenarian decade, it marks a valuable and exciting stage in life. To read more about health during this stage, you might find resources from the National Institute on Aging helpful.
