What does puberty mean?
Puberty is the period of biological development during which the body changes from childhood to physical and sexual maturity. It commonly involves the development of secondary sexual characteristics, including growth in height, changes in body shape, the appearance of body hair, and the onset of reproductive functions. The process usually begins in late childhood or early adolescence, although its timing varies considerably among individuals and can be influenced by health, nutrition, genetics, and other factors. Puberty also commonly brings emotional and social changes, making it a subject of importance in medicine, education, and family life. The word is often used broadly for the entire transition, while terms such as pubescent and pubertal can describe someone or something undergoing this process.
nounThe period during which the body undergoes the physical changes associated with sexual maturation and the development of secondary sexual characteristics. It typically begins in late childhood or early adolescence and ends when reproductive maturity is reached.
- The period of physical and sexual maturation that begins in late childhood or early adolescence and continues until the body reaches reproductive maturity.
"The changes that occur during puberty can affect physical health, mood, and self-esteem."
"Many young people experience significant emotional and physical changes as they go through puberty."
"The doctor discussed early puberty and its possible causes with the parents."
The plural is grammatically possible but uncommon; the word is normally used in the singular to refer to the developmental process.
"The study compared the onset of puberties in different populations."
Puberty is the body's remarkable transition from childhood into the physical maturity needed for reproduction.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does puberty come from?
The word comes through late Middle English from Latin, where pubertas meant “youth” or “the age of maturity.” Latin pubertas was derived from pubes, meaning a youth or an adult person, particularly at the age of maturity. The modern English form developed with the long vowel represented by the first syllable and the suffix -ty. Related English words include pubescent, pubescence, and pubic.
Related word forms
How puberty is actually used
The term is primarily used in medical, educational, and developmental contexts. In general usage, it refers to the overall biological process rather than to puberty alone as the attainment of reproductive maturity.
Easily confused with puberty
Puberty is the period of development, whereas pubescent describes a person or body that is undergoing that development.