A May–December romance is an age-old term for an amorous relationship between two people with a considerable age difference. The months symbolize the seasons, with spring representing youth and winter representing old age.

Why is it called May to December romance?

The term “May December” romance refers to a relationship where a younger woman is involved with an older man. The “May” part of the term refers to the younger woman being in the height of her vibrance, or springtime. “December” refers to the man being closer to the end of his vitality, or wintertime.

What does a May December marriage mean?

May-December marriages, often highlighted in the Hollywood press, may be more common than you think. The term alludes to the fact that one partner in the relationship is in the proverbial spring of their life, while the other is in the late fall or winter.

Do May December romances work?

A May-December romance is a term for a romantic relationship between two people with a considerable age difference. And while a May-December relationship might raise a few eyebrows, specialists believe that, though not always ideal, they can absolutely work when the match is right.

What is the average age gap between husband and wife?

The average age difference (for a heterosexual couple) is 2.3 years, with the man older than the woman. In 64 percent of heterosexual couples, the man is older. In 23 percent, the woman is older, and in the remaining 13 percent, the partners are less than 12 months apart in age.