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Puberty

PYOO-ber-tee /ˈpjuːbərti/

nounB2TOEFLIELTS

generalacademic

The period during which adolescents reach sexual maturity and become capable of reproduction.

Refers specifically to the biological process of sexual maturation, marked by hormonal changes and the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

The story behind the word. The word 'puberty' comes from the Latin 'puber,' meaning 'adult' or 'grown up.' It's also related to 'pubes,' referring to hair and signs of maturity. This root perfectly captures the essence of puberty as the time when a young person physically 'grows up' and becomes capable of adult reproduction. It's a direct linguistic link to the biological transformation into adulthood.

Word relationships

sexual maturation: More clinical and descriptive term for the biological process.

prepubescence: The period before puberty.

Commonly confused with

adolescence: Puberty is the biological process of sexual maturation. Adolescence is the broader psychosocial and developmental period that includes puberty and extends beyond it.

Word family

pubescent (adjective/noun): Having reached puberty or being in the stage of puberty; a person in this stage.

Collocations

onset of puberty
early puberty
delayed puberty
during puberty

Example sentences

"The onset of puberty typically occurs between ages 8 and 14, though it varies widely." The onset of puberty typically occurs between ages 8 and 14, though it varies widely.
"During puberty, adolescents experience rapid physical growth and significant hormonal shifts." During puberty, adolescents experience rapid physical growth and significant hormonal shifts.
"Understanding the changes associated with puberty can help young people navigate this transitional phase." Understanding the changes associated with puberty can help young people navigate this transitional phase.

Memory hook

Think 'PUBERTY' sounds like 'PUPPY-BIRTH' – when a young creature becomes capable of birth (reproduction). Sexual maturity

When not to use

Do not use 'puberty' to refer to the entire period of adolescence, which is a broader psychosocial stage. Puberty is a part of adolescence.

Fun facts

The average age of puberty has decreased over the last century in many parts of the world, a phenomenon known as the 'secular trend.'
Puberty is triggered by hormones released from the brain, specifically GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone).