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.

---

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

---

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

"Some men when they have a midlife crisis buy a Lamborghini or grow a ponytail, but me - I want my very own castle," he said.

From BBC • Feb. 23, 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

Is this a quiet, weirdly constructive midlife crisis?

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 11, 2025

Suddenly Uncle Basil’s midlife crisis truck is a blessing rather than an embarrassment.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman