sexual maturation

noun
UK /ˈsɛkʃuəl ˌmætʃʊˈreɪʃən/
US /ˈsɛkʃuəl ˌmætʃəˈreɪʃən/

The time when a child's body grows into an adult body that can make babies.

Sexual maturation usually begins during the teenage years.

SYNONYMS

pubertyadolescencesexual developmentphysical maturation

RELATED WORDS

hormonesgrowth spurtreproductive systemteenager

OTHER MEANINGS

2. The biological process of becoming able to reproduce.

Scientists studied sexual maturation in animals.

3. The stage when secondary sex characteristics appear.

Voice changes are a sign of sexual maturation in boys.

4. The completion of physical changes that prepare the body for adulthood.

Good nutrition supports healthy sexual maturation.