Retirement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Historical Origins

• The concept of retirement dates back to the Roman Empire, where soldiers who completed their service were given land or money.
• In the U.S., the first formal retirement plan was established in the 19th century, allowing workers to receive a pension after years of service.
• Social Security was created in the 1930s, marking a significant change that helped many people retire more comfortably.

Cultural Perspectives

• In Japan, there is a tradition called 'Kōreisha,' where older adults often take on advisory roles and maintain active engagement in society.
• In some European countries, people often retire at age 60, whereas in the U.S. it typically ranges from 62 to 67, reflecting different cultural attitudes towards aging.
• In many cultures, retirement is celebrated as a milestone, often marked with parties, gifts, or public recognition.

Psychology

• Studies show that a positive outlook on retirement can significantly affect overall happiness and health during later years.
• Many retirees find purpose by engaging in volunteer work, showcasing the importance of meaningful activities post-employment.
• Transitioning into retirement can be challenging, as it often requires adjusting to a new identity beyond one's job title.

Economics

• Retirement planning has become increasingly complex due to longer life expectancies and fluctuating market conditions.
• Many financial advisors suggest that people need to save at least 10-15% of their income per year to retire comfortably.
• The rise of gig economy jobs has changed retirement savings, with more people relying on personal investments rather than pensions.

Pop Culture

• Movies like 'About Schmidt' and 'The Intern' explore themes of retirement, showing characters navigating life after their careers.
• TV shows often highlight retired characters taking on new adventures, reflecting society’s evolving view of retired life.

The word 'retirement' originated in the early 16th century from the French word 'retirer' meaning 'to withdraw.' The concept of retirement as we know it today, with the idea of leaving the workforce at a certain age, began to gain popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is now a common stage in many people's lives, representing a time of rest, relaxation, and new pursuits after years of work.

See also: retire, retired, retiree, retirees, retiring.

At position #2,686, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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