Adult Meaning

Meaning of Word

Adult

Definitions and Meaning in English

• Adult refers to a fully grown person or organism who has reached the age or stage of maturity, typically in terms of physical development, legal rights, and responsibilities.
• It can also refer to anything associated with or intended for adults, such as activities or content not suitable for children.

History and Origin

The word “adult” comes from the Latin word adultus, meaning “grown up” or “mature,” which is derived from adolescere, meaning “to grow up.” The term first appeared in English around the 16th century and has evolved to represent someone who has reached the age of majority or legal adulthood.

Detailed Explanation

An adult is typically someone who has reached the age of majority, often defined legally as 18 or 21 years old, depending on the country. In terms of biology, adulthood refers to the stage when an individual reaches full physical growth and reproductive maturity. Adults are also recognized as having the legal capacity to make decisions, enter into contracts, and take on responsibilities.

In a broader sense, the term “adult” can be used to describe anything that pertains to or is suitable for this group. For example, “adult content” refers to materials that are deemed inappropriate for children due to themes like violence, explicit language, or sexual content.

Example Sentences

1. After turning 18, he was legally recognized as an adult and could vote.
2. The movie was rated R, so it was meant for adults only.
3. The adult lion roams alone, while the cubs stay with their mother.
4. She had to assume adult responsibilities when her parents passed away.
5. Many adults choose to exercise daily to maintain their health.
6. The adult class on photography meets every Thursday evening.
7. Some children mature earlier than others and reach adulthood faster.
8. The adult population of the town voted overwhelmingly in favor of the new law.
9. Adults generally have more financial freedom compared to teenagers.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Grown-up – A person who has reached full maturity, similar to an adult.
2. Mature – Refers to someone who has fully developed both physically and mentally.
3. Major – A legal term for someone who has reached the age of majority.
4. Fully developed – Describes someone who has reached the peak of their physical and mental growth.
5. Responsible – An adult is typically expected to be accountable for their actions and decisions.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Adulthood – The period in a person’s life when they are an adult, typically after adolescence.
2. Legal age – The age at which a person is recognized by law as an adult.
3. Maturity – The state of being mature, often used to describe someone who is well-rounded and responsible.
4. Responsibility – The duty to take care of one’s obligations, often associated with being an adult.
5. Independent – Adults are often seen as capable of living and making decisions on their own.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Adult education – Educational programs specifically designed for adults.
2. Adult supervision – The act of having a responsible adult oversee activities, especially for children.
3. Adult beverage – A drink, typically alcoholic, intended only for adults.
4. Adult entertainment – Content meant for mature audiences, often involving explicit material.
5. Adult toys – Products designed for use by adults, often in the context of sexual wellness.

Antonyms

1. Child – A young person who has not reached adulthood.
2. Minor – A person under the legal age of adulthood.
3. Youth – Refers to the time in a person’s life before adulthood, typically adolescence.
4. Teenager – A person between the ages of 13 and 19, not yet an adult.
5. Infant – A very young child, usually under 2 years old, who is far from adulthood.