Pension Meaning
Pension Definition & Usage
A regular payment made by an employer, government, or financial institution to an individual after they have retired from work, typically to provide financial support during old age.
Examples
- "After working for 40 years, Mark finally started receiving his pension when he retired last year."
- "The government offers a state pension for all citizens above the age of 65."
- "The company contributes to an employee's pension fund to ensure they have financial security after retirement."
- "She was surprised by how much her pension had grown after investing in a diversified portfolio."
- "Many workers are concerned that their pensions won't be enough to cover their living expenses in retirement."
A small hotel or guesthouse, often offering basic accommodation and meals for tourists or travelers.
Examples
- "We stayed at a charming pension in the Alps, where the owners treated us like family."
- "The pension we booked had a beautiful garden and a cozy dining area for guests."
- "On our trip to Paris, we chose a pension instead of a hotel to get a more authentic local experience."
- "They were looking for an affordable pension near the beach for their summer holiday."
- "During their European backpacking adventure, they stayed in several pensions to save money."
Cultural Context
The word 'pension' comes from the Latin word 'pensio', meaning 'payment'. In modern usage, it primarily refers to financial support after retirement, but its second meaning, referring to a small guesthouse, is also widely recognized in certain countries. The concept of pensions, especially state pensions, is central to discussions about aging populations and social security in many countries.
The Pensioner’s Peace
Story
The Pensioner’s Peace
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the terrace, Margaret sat beside her husband Peter, sipping a warm cup of tea. They had worked tirelessly for decades—she as a school teacher and Peter in construction. Now, as pensioners, they found solace in their quiet evenings at home, their pensions providing them with just enough to live comfortably. Every month, a small check arrived from the government, a reminder of their years of hard work. Peter chuckled softly as he remembered his first pension check, which had seemed like such a large sum at the time, but now it felt almost laughable compared to the rising costs of living. "You know," Margaret said, turning to Peter, "when we were younger, I thought I’d never live to see the day I’d be this content with just tea and a good book." She looked out at the garden, the flowers swaying gently in the evening breeze. It had been the quietest of retirements, their pension funds allowing them to maintain a modest but peaceful life. As they talked about the old days, Margaret smiled. "Remember when we traveled to the Alps? We stayed at that lovely little pension near the slopes. I still think it was one of the best trips we ever took." Peter nodded, his eyes twinkling. "The food was incredible, and the owners treated us like family. We were so lucky to find that little place." In their youth, they had imagined that life after work would be difficult, filled with worries about money. But with their pensions in place, they had found security—and a way to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Looking back, they realized how far they had come. "We should plan another trip," Peter said, setting down his cup. "Maybe a pension in Italy next time, what do you think?" Margaret laughed. "You and your pensions!" She shook her head, but there was a warmth in her voice. Their life now was simple, comfortable, and filled with the contentment that comes from knowing their needs were met, thanks to their pensions both literal and metaphorical.