empty nester

noun

empty nest·​er -ˈne-stər How to pronounce empty nester (audio)
: a parent whose children have grown and moved away from home

Examples of empty nester in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Murphy noted there are already approximately 55 people on the waiting list, including professionals who may not be interested in maintaining a single-family residence, along with empty nesters. Daniel I. Dorfman, Chicago Tribune, 17 June 2025 The mom of two opened up about life with her husband as an empty nester. Kayla Grant, People.com, 27 May 2025 Kelly Ripa is baring it all with her tips for future empty nesters. Jay Stahl, USA Today, 27 May 2025 Julian’s graduation comes after Jessica and Jerry officially became empty nesters in August 2024. Escher Walcott, People.com, 13 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for empty nester

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of empty nester was in 1958

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Cite this Entry

“Empty nester.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/empty%20nester. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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