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Tween Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tween

[twiหn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

age group

The term 'tween' typically refers to a young person who is in the transitional stage between childhood and adolescence, generally considered to be between the ages of 8 and 12. This period is characterized by significant physical, emotional, and social development. 'Tweens' often face new social pressures and begin to form their own identities, becoming more independent from their parents. The market for tweens has grown significantly, influencing fashion, entertainment, and lifestyle products.

Synonyms

between, preteen, young adolescent.

Examples of usage

  • The tween population is becoming a major market for fashion brands.
  • Tweens often look for role models who resonate with their personal experiences.
  • Books aimed at tweens often explore themes of friendship and identity.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • The emergence of 'tween' culture has influenced media, with TV shows and movies now focusing on issues relevant to pre-teens.
  • This age group is often seen as a bridge to adolescence, highlighting their unique challenges and aspirations.
  • Fashion brands have created clothing specifically tailored to tweens, emphasizing their growing independence and personal style.

Psychology

  • Tweens often experience significant physical, emotional, and social changes, marking their early teenage development.
  • They typically start forging their own identities, balancing peer influence with parental guidance.
  • During this time, friendships become increasingly important, often affecting self-esteem and social dynamics.

Literature & Media

  • Numerous popular book series, like 'Harry Potter' and 'Dork Diaries,' target the tween audience, addressing their interests and challenges.
  • Television networks have created channels aimed specifically at this age group, such as Nickelodeonโ€™s 'Nicktoons.'
  • The term has been embraced in literature and media as a genre in its own right, leading to the creation of 'tween' novels.

Marketing & Economy

  • The tween market is extremely lucrative, with companies investing heavily in products that appeal to this age group.
  • Advertisers focus on lifestyle, promoting activities and products that resonate with tweens to capture their attention.
  • This demographic often wields significant influence over family purchases, emphasizing their growing consumer power.

Origin of 'tween'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Tween' is a shortening of the word 'between,' showing this age group is in transition.
  • The term became popular in the late 20th century as a distinct period in child development.
  • It reflects a shift in marketing strategies aimed at this age group, leading to targeted products and services.

The term 'tween' is a blend of 'between' and 'teen,' referring specifically to the age group that is between childhood and the teenage years. Its usage began to gain popularity in the late 1980s and 1990s as marketers started to identify this distinct demographic. The concept of 'tweens' was further popularized by media targeting young audiences, including television shows and movies tailored to this age group. The tween market has since expanded, encompassing not only children's books and toys but also fashion, music, and technology, with marketing strategies increasingly geared towards this unique phase of life. The rise of social media has also played a significant role in shaping the interests and influences of tweens, creating a culture that is more aware and connected than ever before.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,375, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.