What is a 100th Anniversary Called: Centennial or Unicorn?

A 100th anniversary is referred to as a centennial. This term is used to celebrate the completion of a century in any context, whether it be the founding of a nation, the establishment of a business, or a personal milestone like a marriage. The term 'centennial' is derived from the Latin words 'centum' and 'annus,' meaning one hundred and year, respectively.

The 100th Wedding Anniversary: A Rarity

The 100th wedding anniversary is not as common as other anniversaries because it reflects the extraordinary longevity of both partners involved. Given that the average human lifespan is around 80-85 years, a 100th wedding anniversary would be extremely rare, with only a few possible candidates in the world. For this to occur, both spouses would need to have been married for approximately 120 years, which would require them to have been born around 1900 and to live well beyond the average life expectancy.

Centennial Celebration vs. Unicorn

Strictly speaking, a 100th wedding anniversary is referred to as a centennial. However, due to the rarity of such an event, some people jokingly refer to it as a 'unicorn,' invoking the notion of an imaginary, rarely seen creature. This metaphorical term highlights the infrequency and wonder of such an event.

Other Common Anniversary Terms

While a 100th wedding anniversary is a unique milestone, other common anniversaries have their own name and symbolic items:

Silver Jubilee: 25 years – often represented by silver Golden Jubilee: 50 years – often represented by gold Platinum Jubilee: 70 years – often represented by platinum Diamond Jubilee: 60 years – often represented by diamonds Granite Jubilee: 90 years – often represented by granite

Each of these anniversaries has its own symbolism, adding layers of meaning to the celebration. The rarity of a 100th wedding anniversary or other long-lasting milestones underscores the significance of perseverance and commitment over time.

Humorous or Fictional Names

While a 100th wedding anniversary is unlikely to happen in reality, some humorous or fictional terms have been suggested, such as 'unicorn' or 'celestial wedding anniversary.' These names add a touch of whimsy and fun to what would otherwise be a highly improbable situation in today's world.

Conclusion

In summary, a 100th anniversary is a centennial, a term that reflects the completion of a century. While a 100th wedding anniversary is extremely rare and may be jokingly referred to as a unicorn, it remains a symbol of longevity, commitment, and enduring love. The other common anniversary terms each have their own unique story and significance, making each milestone a special celebration in its own right.