Pubescent: meaning, definitions and examples

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pubescent

 

[ pjubˈɛsənt ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

growth phase

Pubescent refers to the stage of development during which a person or organism undergoes puberty, characterized by the development of secondary sexual characteristics such as the growth of body hair and changes in muscle and fat distribution. This period typically occurs during adolescence, which can vary in age from around 10 to 14 years old for girls and 12 to 16 years old for boys. Pubescent individuals may experience physical, emotional, and psychological changes as they mature into adulthood. Additionally, the term can also apply to certain plants or insects that exhibit pubescence, which is the presence of soft hairs on their surface.

Synonyms

adolescent, teenage, youthful

Examples of usage

  • She felt awkward during her pubescent years.
  • Pubescent boys often grow taller quickly.
  • The pubescent stage is crucial for development.
  • Many changes occur during the pubescent phase.

Translations

Translations of the word "pubescent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pubescente

🇮🇳 किशोरावस्था

🇩🇪 pubertär

🇮🇩 remaja

🇺🇦 підлітковий

🇵🇱 pokwitający

🇯🇵 思春期の

🇫🇷 pubescent

🇪🇸 pubescente

🇹🇷 ergen

🇰🇷 사춘기

🇸🇦 مراهق

🇨🇿 pubescentní

🇸🇰 pubertálny

🇨🇳 青春期的

🇸🇮 puberteten

🇮🇸 unglingur

🇰🇿 жасөспірім

🇬🇪 მოზარდი

🇦🇿 yetkinlik yaşına çatmış

🇲🇽 pubescente

Word origin

The term 'pubescent' originates from the Latin word 'pubertas,' which means 'maturity' or 'adulthood.' It has its roots in 'pubes,' meaning 'hairy' or 'the state of having grown hair.' As children transition into adolescence, they experience various physical and hormonal changes that prompt the growth of body hair, which is emphasized in the etymology. The term entered English usage in the early 19th century, coinciding with increased interest in the physiological and psychological aspects of puberty and growth. Understanding this term is essential not only in biology and psychology but also in education, where it helps to frame discussions about developmental stages and health in young individuals.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,406, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.