Retirement: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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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• 2683 whenever
• 2684 restricted
• 2685 municipal
• 2686 retirement
• 2687 treat
• 2688 functional
• 2689 feeding
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