A jubilee is a special anniversary marking a significant milestone, usually 25, 50, or 60 years of something important. When a country celebrates its jubilee, it's marking decades since its founding. When a couple celebrates their golden jubilee, they're honoring 50 years of marriage. Schools might hold a jubilee to commemorate their founding, with reunions, ceremonies, and celebrations.

In ancient Hebrew tradition, every 50 years was declared a jubilee year: a time when debts were forgiven, enslaved people were freed, and land was returned to original owners. It was meant to be a fresh start for everyone in society.

Today, jubilees are mostly about celebration and gratitude. When Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her Diamond Jubilee in 2012, Britain marked her 60 years as queen with parades, concerts, and street parties. The word carries a sense of joyful commemoration, something bigger than an ordinary birthday or anniversary. A jubilee recognizes that reaching such a milestone took dedication, perseverance, and often the efforts of many people working together over time.

You might also hear jubilant, which means extremely happy and celebratory: the same joyful spirit that makes a jubilee special.