midlife crisis

American  

noun

1. a period of psychological stress occurring in middle age, thought to be triggered by a physical, occupational, or domestic event, as menopause, diminution of physical prowess, job loss, or departure of children from the home.

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midlife crisis British  

/ ˈmɪdˌlaɪf /

noun

1. a crisis that may be experienced in middle age involving frustration, panic, and feelings of pointlessness, sometimes resulting in radical and often ill-advised changes of lifestyle

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Etymology

Origin of midlife crisis

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Here’s how it can shake its midlife crisis.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

American shale producers are in a midlife crisis: They know their best days of growth are behind them.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 10, 2026

"The real midlife crisis in America isn't about lifestyle choices or sports cars. It's about juggling work, finances, family, and health amid weakening social supports," Infurna said.

From Science Daily • Feb. 1, 2026

In a five-star review, the Telegraph's Robbie Collin described it as a "midlife crisis masterpiece", and highlighted the final scene as a "knockout".

From BBC • Aug. 28, 2025

My Aunt Helen used to say that my dad was going to be too proud to have a midlife crisis.

From "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Stephen Chbosky