Mature

Definition

Having reached the age of adulthood or having fully developed in a physical, intellectual, or emotional capacity.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /məˈtʃʊr/ or /məˈtʊr/
• Respelling: muh-CHUR or muh-TOOR (with "muh" as in "sofa," "CHUR" as in "church," or "TOOR" as in "tour")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /məˈtʃʊə/ or /məˈtjʊə/
• Respelling: muh-CHOO-uh or muh-TYOO-uh (with "muh" as in "sofa," "CHOO" as in "choose," and "uh" as in "sofa," or "TYOO" as in "tune")

In both dialects, "mature" places the primary stress on the second syllable. The pronunciation varies slightly between American and British English, with "muh-CHUR" or "muh-TOOR" in American English and "muh-CHOO-uh" or "muh-TYOO-uh" in British English.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin term "maturus", which means "ripe, timely, or early".

Derivatives

• Maturity
• Maturation
• Maturate
• Maturely
• Maturer

Synonyms

• Grown-up
• Ripe
• Developed

Antonyms

• Immature
• Juvenile
• Green

Usage

• The film has a mature theme and is not suitable for children.
• The wine will mature with age and taste better over time.

Related Terms

• Growth
• Evolution
• Progress
• Adulthood
• Aging

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Fully grown or developed physically, emotionally, or intellectually.
• Example: She is mature for her age, often understanding complex emotions.

• Pertaining to or suitable for adults, especially in content.
• Example: The book had a mature theme, focusing on deep philosophical issues.

• Of a certain age or older.
• Example: The software is now mature and stable after years of development.

Verb

• To reach full growth or development.
• Example: The grapes will mature in a few months.

• To improve or refine over time, especially as a result of aging.
• Example: The wine matures well when stored in oak barrels.

• To become due for payment or ready for a financial transaction.
• Example: The bond will mature in five years, at which time it can be redeemed for its face value.