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Definition of puberty

puberty

/ˈpjuːbərti/
pu · ber · ty
Plural:puberties
•
Adjective:pubertal
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puberty Lexical Profile

puberty Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The developmental period and physiological process during which a child's body matures into an adult body capable of sexual reproduction, initiated by hormonal signals from the brain to the gonads.

Example

"Rapid growth spurts and voice changes are common physical milestones experienced during puberty."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for puberty
Antonyms
View all antonyms for puberty

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'puberty' specifically denotes the biological and physiological process of reaching sexual maturity, 'adolescence' refers to the broader psychological and social transition from childhood to adulthood.

• Rhymes for puberty

• Nearby Words

pub
pube
pubertal
puberty
pubes
pubescence
pubescent

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French puberté and directly from Latin pubertas ('age of maturity'), derived from pubes ('adult, full-grown, or signs of manhood').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Puberty. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/puberty
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