puberty
|pu-ber-ty|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈpjuːbərti/
🇬🇧
/ˈpjuːbəti/
sexual maturation
Etymology
Etymology Information
'puberty' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'pubertas,' where 'puber' meant 'adult.'
Historical Evolution
'pubertas' transformed into the Old French word 'puberté,' and eventually became the modern English word 'puberty' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'the age of maturity,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'the period of sexual maturation.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the period during which adolescents reach sexual maturity and become capable of reproduction.
Puberty typically occurs between ages 10 and 14 for girls and 12 and 16 for boys.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/05/19 17:35