ADULT

Definition of ADULT

ADULT Noun

Adult is a noun and an adjective that refers to an individual who has reached maturity and is considered fully grown or developed in terms of physical, mental, and emotional attributes. Here are key aspects related to the term Adult:

Maturity and Development: An adult is characterized by having reached full physical and psychological development. This includes the completion of growth and the attainment of reproductive maturity.

Age Range: The term adult typically refers to individuals who have reached the age of legal majority, which varies by jurisdiction but is commonly set around 18 years old. At this age, individuals are granted certain rights and responsibilities.

Legal Definitions: Legally, adulthood often brings rights such as voting, entering into contracts, and serving on juries. It also comes with responsibilities, including obeying the law and assuming accountability for one’s actions.

Cognitive and Emotional Maturity: Being an adult involves not only physical maturity but also cognitive and emotional maturity. Adults are expected to demonstrate a higher level of reasoning, decision-making, and emotional regulation compared to children and adolescents.

Autonomy and Independence: Adults have a greater degree of autonomy and independence in their lives. They are expected to make their own decisions, manage their finances, and take responsibility for their well-being.

Social Roles: Adults assume various social roles within communities, participating in civic activities, volunteering, and contributing to the social fabric. They may also be involved in community leadership and decision-making.

Legal and Ethical Responsibility: Adults are held legally and ethically responsible for their actions. They are expected to abide by laws, societal norms, and ethical standards, with consequences for violations.

In summary, Adult denotes an individual who has reached maturity, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional development, and is characterized by autonomy, legal rights and responsibilities, and active participation in various facets of society.

UNCOMMUNICATIVE

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DISPERSAL

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VIOLENT

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VERSATILITY

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Examples of ADULT in a sentence

• An adult is an individual who has reached the age of maturity, typically considered to be 18 years or older.
• Responsibilities such as work, finances, and personal decisions often become more prominent in the life of an adult.
• Legal rights and privileges, such as voting and driving, are granted to individuals upon reaching adult status.
• The transition from adolescence to adult life involves navigating challenges and making independent choices.
• Lifelong learning and personal growth continue to be important aspects of the journey into adulthood.
• The adult population is diverse and encompasses individuals of various ages and backgrounds.
• The adult students in the class brought a wealth of life experience to the discussion.
• Becoming an adult means taking on greater independence and accountability.
• She embraced her adult role in the family, supporting her parents in their later years.

Etymology of ADULT

The term adult has a rich etymological history, tracing its roots from Latin through Old French to its current form in English.

• Latin Origins: The term adult originates from the Latin word “adultus,” which is the past participle of “adolescere,” meaning “to grow up” or “to mature.” The Latin root “ad-” means “to,” and “olescere” is derived from “alere,” meaning “to nourish” or “to grow.”
• Transition to Old French: The Latin “adultus” evolved into the Old French word “adulte,” maintaining the meaning of someone who has reached full growth or maturity.
• Adoption into Middle English: The Old French “adulte” was adopted into Middle English, retaining its meaning related to a person who has reached full physical and intellectual maturity.
• Modern English Usage: In contemporary English, the term adult refers to a person who has reached the age of maturity, typically recognized as the age of majority, when they are legally considered responsible for their actions and decisions.

From its Latin roots through its transformation in Old French to its present usage in English, the term adult reflects the state of having reached full physical and intellectual development, marking the transition from adolescence to full maturity.