Adolescent

Definition

Adolescent is a term used to describe a person in the transitional stage of growth and development between childhood and adulthood, typically between the ages of 12 and 18. It can also refer to characteristics or behaviors associated with this age group.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌædəˈlɛsənt/
• Respelling: ad-uh-LES-uhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌædəˈlɛsənt/
• Respelling: ad-uh-LES-uhnt

The pronunciation of "adolescent" is the same in both American and British English, though there may be slight variations in accent.

Etymology

The word "adolescent" comes from the Latin word "adolescentem," the present participle of "adolescere," meaning "to grow up" or "to mature." This term entered the English language in the 15th century and was initially used as an adjective describing a youthful or developing phase.

Derivatives

• Adolescence (noun)
• Adolescently (adverb)
• Adolescenthood (noun)
• Pre-adolescent (adjective)
• Post-adolescent (adjective)

Synonyms

• Youth
• Teenager
• Juvenile

Antonyms

• Adult
• Infant
• Child

Usage

The word "adolescent" is often used to describe both the age group and the behaviors typical of this developmental period. For example, "She is an adolescent navigating the challenges of high school," or "Adolescent behavior can be impulsive and exploratory."

Related Terms

• Puberty: The period during which adolescents reach sexual maturity and become capable of reproduction.
• Teenager: A person between the ages of 13 and 19.
• Adulthood: The stage of development that follows adolescence, typically marked by full physical and legal maturity.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to or characteristic of adolescence or young people: Refers to qualities or behaviors associated with the period of adolescence.
  • Example: "Adolescent growth can bring about physical and emotional changes."

Noun

• A young person who is in the period of development between childhood and adulthood: Specifically, an individual who is going through the transition stage marked by growth and identity formation.
  • Example: "The school counselor works with adolescents to help them with academic and personal issues."