# seventies

/ˈsɛvəniz/ (US) · /sˈɛvəntɪz/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/seventies
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the years from 1970 to 1979, or the period in someone's life when they are between 70 and 79 years old. You often use it to talk about music, fashion, or age.

For teachers: the decade spanning from 1970 to 1979 inclusive, or the years of age between 70 and 79. Often used to categorise cultural trends or demographic groups.

## Examples

- Bell-bottom jeans were very popular in the seventies.
- My grandmother is in her late seventies but she still goes hiking every weekend.
- The seventies are often remembered as a decade of significant social change and economic transition, particularly regarding the global energy crisis and the rise of disco culture.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He is in his seventy." but "He is in his seventies." — When referring to a person's age range or a decade, the plural form must be used.

## Usage notes

- Always takes a plural verb. When referring to the decade, it is often written as '70s' or ''70s'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.