'adolescent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'adolescentem,' where 'adolescere' meant 'to grow up.'

'adolescentem' transformed into the Old French word 'adolescent,' and eventually became the modern English word 'adolescent' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to grow up,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'young person in the transitional stage between childhood and adulthood.'