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Definition of pubescent
pubescent
/pjuːˈbɛs.ənt/
pu · bes · cent
Plural:pubescents
pubescent Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
11
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
Syllables
3
pubescent Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adjective
1
Relating to, undergoing, or having just reached puberty.
Example
"The pediatric endocrinologist monitored the patient's hormone levels during his pubescent growth spurt."
2
(In botany and zoology) covered with fine, short, soft hair or down.
Example
"The underside of the leaf is densely pubescent, which helps reduce water loss in arid climates."
Synonyms
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View all antonyms for pubescent• noun
1
A young person who is undergoing or has reached puberty.
Example
"Nutritional requirements increase significantly for pubescents due to rapid bone and muscle development."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for pubescent Antonyms
View all antonyms for pubescent• Rhymes for pubescent
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the mid-17th century from French 'pubescent' or directly from Latin 'pubescentem' (present participle of 'pubescere', meaning 'to reach physical maturity' or 'to grow downy hair'), derived from 'pubes' ('adult' or 'signs of manhood').
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pubescent. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pubescent