Grownup: meaning, definitions and examples
🧑🎤
grownup
[ ˈɡroʊnˌʌp ]
adult person
A grownup is an individual who is fully mature and no longer a child. This term is often used to emphasize the responsibility and behaviors expected of adults compared to younger individuals. Grownups are typically independent and engage in adult activities such as work, relationships, and parenting. The concept of a grownup also carries with it societal norms about behavior and decision-making. Being a grownup implies having reached a stage in life where one is expected to take on responsibilities and contribute to society.
Synonyms
adult, mature person, responsible person.
Examples of usage
- Grownups have to make tough decisions.
- She enjoys spending time with grownups at dinner parties.
- The movie was meant for both kids and grownups.
- Grownups are often burdened with responsibilities.
- It's time for the grownups to take charge.
Translations
Translations of the word "grownup" in other languages:
🇵🇹 adulto
🇮🇳 बड़ा
🇩🇪 Erwachsener
🇮🇩 dewasa
🇺🇦 дорослий
🇵🇱 dorosły
🇯🇵 大人
🇫🇷 adulte
🇪🇸 adulto
🇹🇷 yetişkin
🇰🇷 어른
🇸🇦 بالغ
🇨🇿 dospělý
🇸🇰 dospelý
🇨🇳 成年人
🇸🇮 odrasel
🇮🇸 fullorðinn
🇰🇿 ересек
🇬🇪 ზრდასრული
🇦🇿 böyük
🇲🇽 adulto
Etymology
The term 'grownup' originated in the early 19th century as a colloquial term derived from the phrase 'grown up.' It signifies someone who has reached adulthood, a status signified by both biological development and social acceptance. The word combines 'grown,' the past participle of 'grow,' suggesting an increase in size or maturity, with 'up,' which conveys the idea of having reached a higher state or level. Historically, the transition into adulthood involved numerous rites and cultural acknowledgments, which vary across societies. In contemporary usage, the term has evolved to emphasize not only physical maturation but also psychological and emotional readiness to face life's responsibilities. 'Grownup' also encapsulates a sense of nostalgia, as it is often used by younger generations when discussing the complexities of adult life versus childhood innocence.