Meaning & Definition of word "Puberty"

Puberty

/ˈpjuːbərti/

noun:

  • 1. the period during which adolescents reach sexual maturity and become capable of reproduction, generally characterized by physical changes and development.
    • Example: Many teenagers experience significant emotional changes during puberty.
  • 2. the stage in human development that marks the onset of physical and hormonal changes leading to sexual maturity.
    • Example: Puberty typically begins between the ages of 8 and 14 in girls and 9 and 15 in boys.
  • 3. a time of rapid physical growth and change, including the development of secondary sexual characteristics.
    • Example: The onset of puberty can vary significantly from one individual to another.
  • 4. the phase marked by the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the start of reproductive capability.
    • Example: 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 of puberty

Meaning: The weird stage

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

Meaning: Awkward phase

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