401(k) means: A tax-qualified, defined-contribution pension account.. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.
401(k)
(US) A tax-qualified, defined-contribution pension account.
fɔɹ.oʊ̯.wʌn.keɪ̯Documented since 1970s1970sGen Xhistorical127 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026＋ Add a definition
Etymology timeline
Born ~1978 · no dated citations yetBoomer / counterculture eraSee decade cohort →
Definitions
Global
#1·Apr 27, 2026Global
(US) A tax-qualified, defined-contribution pension account.
Entrepreneurs have responded enthusiastically: Solo 401(k) assets now stand at $2.5 billion, and could hit $90 billion by 2012.It's easy to see why the plans are becoming so popular. As with ordinary 401(k)s, as well as SEP-IRAs designed…
Origin: From section 401(k) of the US Internal Revenue Code, which provides for such accounts. Origin information sourced from Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0).
For parents
401(k) means: A tax-qualified, defined-contribution pension account.. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.
For ESL learners
401(k) means: A tax-qualified, defined-contribution pension account.. Register: neutral, standard English. Common learner mistake is using the word in a register it does not fit, or assuming a single global meaning; always check the context before producing it yourself. A formal-English equivalent (a synonym or descriptive phrase) is usually safer in writing. When in doubt, paraphrase rather than reuse the slang form.
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For specific readers
Why is this section here?
Slang is read by different audiences for very different reasons. The For parents view re-explains the term in plain, non-judgemental language so a caregiver can understand what their child means without needing the surrounding subculture. The For English learners view focuses on register (when it's safe to use), formal alternatives, and common mistakes — what a textbook won't teach you.
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(US) A retirement benefit in which a company combines an ESOP and a 401(k).
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(UK, pensions) A pension plan that is funded entirely by individual contributions rather than any employer contributions.
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(US, finance) A particular kind of IRA (individual retirement account), used for its tax-related benefits.
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(UK, pensions) A retirement annuity contract.
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(UK, pensions) Describing a pension scheme in which an employer agrees to provide a pension payment or lump sum on retirement that is based on the combination of the employer's and employee's contributions to the scheme over the employee's working life.