Pronunciation: [θˌɜːtɪsˈʌmθɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "thirtysomething" can be a bit tricky to spell. It refers to those in their thirties, but the spelling can be difficult, with some people adding extra letters or leaving them out. The correct spelling is "thirty" followed by the suffix "-something." The stress in the word falls on the first syllable, pronounced as /ˈθəːti/. The letter "t" is pronounced twice in this word as /t/ and /s/ respectively.
"Thirtysomething" is an adjective that describes individuals who are in their thirties, typically referring to individuals who are between the ages of 30 and 39. It is derived from the combination of the word "thirty" and the suffix "-something," which indicates an approximate or vague age.
In a broader sense, "thirtysomething" also refers to a distinct social, cultural, and psychological experience associated with this specific age group. It encompasses the unique challenges, concerns, and characteristics that often arise during this period of life. Thirtysomethings are commonly perceived as adults who have transitioned from their often more carefree twenties into a phase marked by greater responsibility, maturity, and personal development.
Thirtysomething individuals often face significant life choices, such as establishing careers, entering long-term relationships, starting families, or pursuing personal goals and ambitions. They may also navigate various challenges, including balancing work-life demands, dealing with financial pressures, and experiencing a shift in priorities and values.
The term "thirtysomething" has gained cultural currency beyond its simple numerical meaning, and it is often utilized to depict a particular generation or age cohort. It can refer to a specific demographic segment and is frequently used in marketing or media contexts to target or describe this age group.
Overall, "thirtysomething" captures both a numerical age range and the broader cultural and psychological dimensions associated with being in one's thirties.
The word "thirtysomething" is a compound formed by combining the word "thirty" with the suffix "-something".
"Thirty" originated from the Old English word "þritig", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "thritigaz". This Proto-Germanic term is formed by combining the word for "three" (from Proto-Indo-European "treis") with a suffix indicating a group of ten. Thus, "thritigaz" refers to the group of ten after three tens, which is thirty.
The suffix "-something" is used to refer to an unspecified or uncertain quantity. It is derived from the Old English word "sum", meaning "a certain number or amount". This word has evolved into the Middle English "-som", which eventually became "-thing" in Modern English.
