Adult

Definition

Adult is both a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a person or organism that has reached full growth or maturity. As an adjective, it describes something suitable for or related to adults, often implying maturity or a certain level of responsibility.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• Noun and Adjective IPA Pronunciation: /əˈdʌlt/ or /ˈædʌlt/
• Respelling: uh-DULT or AD-ult

British English

• Noun and Adjective IPA Pronunciation: /ˈædʌlt/ or /əˈdʌlt/
• Respelling: AD-ult or uh-DULT

The pronunciation of "adult" varies, with emphasis commonly placed on either the first or second syllable depending on the region.

Etymology

The word "adult" originates from the Latin term "adultus," meaning "grown" or "matured." It is the past participle of "adolescere," which means "to grow up." The word entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, used to denote a fully grown person.

Derivatives

• Adulthood (noun)
• Adultness (noun)
• Adulting (verb, informal)
• Adultly (adverb)
• Non-adult (noun/adjective)

Synonyms

• Grown-up
• Mature
• Full-grown

Antonyms

• Child
• Juvenile
• Minor

Usage

The term "adult" is commonly used to describe someone who has reached the age of legal responsibility or maturity, or something intended for mature audiences. For example, "He became a responsible adult," or "The film has adult content."

Related Terms

• Maturity: The state of being fully grown or developed.
• Responsibility: The state of being accountable for one's actions.
• Adolescence: The transitional period between childhood and adulthood.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person who has reached maturity or the age of legal responsibility: Refers to an individual who is fully grown and typically accountable for their actions.
  • Example: "As an adult, he takes on new responsibilities."

Adjective

• Suitable for or relating to adults: Describes content or products intended for a mature audience.
  • Example: "The store has a section for adult literature."
• Fully grown or mature: Refers to organisms or entities that have reached full growth or development.
  • Example: "The adult eagle has distinct plumage compared to its juvenile form."