EMPTY NESTERS Meaning and
Definition
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Empty nesters refers to individuals or couples who have reached a stage in their lives where their children have grown up and moved out of their familial home, leaving it empty. The term "empty nest" symbolizes the departure of the children from their parents' home, resulting in a state of emptiness or absence. Empty nesters typically experience a significant lifestyle change as they adjust to a newfound freedom and independence.
This phase of life is characterized by an empty household, with parents transitioning into a stage of life that no longer revolves around raising their children. Empty nesters usually face a variety of emotions during this period, including a mix of both positive and negative sentiments such as pride, nostalgia, and even sadness. Some empty nesters joyfully embrace the independence and the ability to reinvent themselves, while others may struggle with feelings of loss and loneliness.
As the responsibilities of child-rearing decrease, empty nesters often find themselves with additional time, resources, and energy to devote to personal pursuits or their own interests. This stage can also be a time for reconnecting with a partner, focusing on career advancements, or pursuing new hobbies and passions. Empty nesters may seek ways to adapt to this new lifestyle, whether that involves downsizing to a smaller home, traveling more frequently, or even becoming involved in their community as volunteers or mentors.
Overall, empty nesters refer to individuals or couples who have experienced a significant change in their family dynamic as their children have grown up and moved away, leading to an empty household and a period of adjustment and self-discovery.
Etymology of EMPTY NESTERS
The term "empty nesters" refers to parents whose children have grown up and left home, leaving an "empty nest" behind. The etymology of this phrase can be understood by analyzing its components separately.
The word "empty" originated from the Old English word "æmettig", which means "vacant" or "unoccupied". It then evolved into the Middle English word "empty", retaining the same meaning.
The term "nest" comes from the Old English word "nest", which refers to a structure built by birds for laying their eggs and raising their young ones.
Therefore, when combined, "empty nest" describes the stage of life when the children have left home, leaving the parents with an empty place that was once filled with the activities and presence of their offspring. The plural form, "empty nesters", is used to denote parents who find themselves in this situation.
