Adult: meaning, definitions and examples
👩💼
adult
[ əˈdʌlt ]
legal
A person who is fully grown or developed. In terms of legal age, an individual who has reached the age of majority and is considered legally responsible for their actions.
Synonyms
grown-up, man or woman, mature person
Examples of usage
- Only adults are allowed to purchase alcohol in this country.
- As an adult, you are expected to make your own decisions and take responsibility for them.
psychology
A person characterized by maturity and the ability to deal with the challenges of life in a responsible and constructive way.
Synonyms
mature individual, responsible person
Examples of usage
- She showed great maturity and wisdom beyond her years, truly embodying the qualities of an adult.
informal
Referring to activities or things that are suitable for fully developed individuals.
Synonyms
grown-up, mature, suitable for adults
Examples of usage
- The movie contains adult content and is not suitable for children.
- This game is for adult players only.
Translations
Translations of the word "adult" in other languages:
🇵🇹 adulto
🇮🇳 वयस्क (vayasak)
🇩🇪 Erwachsener
🇮🇩 dewasa
🇺🇦 дорослий
🇵🇱 dorosły
🇯🇵 大人 (otona)
🇫🇷 adulte
🇪🇸 adulto
🇹🇷 yetişkin
🇰🇷 성인 (seongin)
🇸🇦 بالغ (baligh)
🇨🇿 dospělý
🇸🇰 dospelý
🇨🇳 成人 (chéngrén)
🇸🇮 odrasel
🇮🇸 fullorðinn
🇰🇿 ересек
🇬🇪 ზრდასრული (zrdasruli)
🇦🇿 böyük
🇲🇽 adulto
Word origin
The word 'adult' originated from the Latin word 'adultus', which means 'grown up' or 'mature'. The concept of adulthood has been recognized in various cultures throughout history, often associated with reaching a certain age where an individual is considered fully developed and responsible. In modern society, adulthood is typically defined by legal age limits and the ability to make independent decisions.
See also: adulthood.