Vasatta

Vasatta is a term used in Hajnówka, a town in eastern Poland, to describe someone who is still a bachelor or a spinster at the age of 40. The concept is closely tied to a local proverb that states: "Dziadek z młynu, tylko 40-latka we wsi nikt nie zwie vasatą" translating to "Only a 40-year-old from the village is called vasata". The word vasatta can be literally translated to "widower" but the term is often used to describe an unmarried individual.

According to local customs and superstitions, marriage is seen as a milestone in one's life, and being 40 years old and still unmarried is considered unusual in the community. Vasattas are generally seen as having a different status in the community, often facing social pressure to marry and start a family.

There is no universally accepted definition of vasatta in academic literature, and it is primarily discussed within the context of the local culture and folklore. According to some sources, the term vasatta may also have roots in pre-Christian Polish culture, where an unmarried person at a certain age was seen as impious.

It's worth noting that the concept of vasatta does not have any negative connotations in itself, and the term is not derogatory. However, it still reflects the societal norms and expectations surrounding marriage and family life that existed in that particular region and time period.