Teens

Definition

Teens typically refers to the age range of individuals between 13 to 19 years old, embodying the stage of adolescence where individuals experience significant physical, emotional, and social changes.

Parts of Speech

• Noun (usually used with plural verb)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tiːnz/
• Respelling: TEENZ (with "TEENZ" rhyming with "means" and "beans")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tiːnz/
• Respelling: TEENZ (similar to American English, with "TEENZ" rhyming with "means" and "beans")

In both dialects, "teens" is pronounced with a long "ee" sound, as in "mean," followed by a "z" sound, indicating the plural form. The pronunciation of "teens" is consistent between American and British English.

Etymology

The term "teens" is derived from the Old English words of 'tēona' and 'tīene', which mean to draw out or extend. The use of "teen" as a suffix in numbers thirteen through nineteen is likely related to this etymological root, which in this context, reflects the extension beyond twelve.

Derivatives

• Teenage (adjective, noun)
• Teenager (noun)
• Teeny (adjective)
• Teensy (adjective)
• Pre-teen (noun)

Synonyms

• Adolescents
• Juveniles
• Youngsters

Antonyms

• Adults
• Children
• Elders

Usage

The term "teens" is used in a variety of contexts to denote individuals in the age range of 13 to 19, typically in discussions related to educational, social, or family matters. It can also be used to refer to the numerical range of 13 to 19.

Related Terms

• Youth
• Puberty
• Adolescence
• Minor
• Underage

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Age Range: Referring to the age range of individuals who are between 13 and 19 years old.
• Example: The program is targeted at helping teens navigate the challenges of high school.

• Numerical Range: Referring to the numerical values from thirteen to nineteen.
• Example: The temperature dropped to the teens last night, making it very cold outside.