grownup

American  

[grohn-uhp] / ˈgroʊnˌʌp /

noun

1. a mature, fully grown person; adult.

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Etymology

Origin of grownup

First recorded in 1805–15; noun use of verb phrase grow up

Example Sentences

“No grownups!” the boys exult, upon realizing they are on a deserted island after the plane evacuating them from Britain is shot down.

From The Wall Street Journal

It’s weird, but I don’t think I’ve ever had a grownup hold out their hand for me to shake.

From Literature

Mr. Reiner later recalled that Norman Lear was the first grownup to say he was funny, when he was around 7 or 8.

From The Wall Street Journal

All the grownups know what John F. Kennedy said, in words that are famous because they’re what everyone has always said and been right: “Life is unfair.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Asked by the child why grownups always lie, Phillip answers that it’s because lying is easier than telling the truth.

From The Wall Street Journal