Puberty

/ˈpjuːbərti/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the period during which adolescents reach sexual maturity and become capable of reproduction, generally characterized by physical changes and development.

Many teenagers experience significant emotional changes during puberty.

the stage in human development that marks the onset of physical and hormonal changes leading to sexual maturity.

Puberty typically begins between the ages of 8 and 14 in girls and 9 and 15 in boys.

a time of rapid physical growth and change, including the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

The onset of puberty can vary significantly from one individual to another.

the phase marked by the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the start of reproductive capability.

Understanding puberty is important for helping young people navigate their adolescent years.

Etymology

From Latin 'pubertas' meaning 'the age of maturity'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

going through puberty

The experience of undergoing physical and emotional changes during adolescence.

puberty blues

A term used to describe the emotional turmoil associated with puberty.

early puberty

Refers to onset of puberty at a younger than average age.

Related Words

adolescent

A young person in the process of developing from a child into an adult.

maturation

The process of becoming mature physically, emotionally, or intellectually.

Slang Meanings

The weird stage

Everyone goes through the weird stage during puberty when they don't know what's happening.

Awkward phase

He was really awkward during his puberty years when his voice was cracking.