precocity

[pri-kos-i-tee]

noun

1. the state of being or tendency to be precocious.

Word History and Origins

Origin of precocity¹

1630–40; < French précosité, equivalent to précose (< Latin praecoci-, stem of praecox early ripening, adj. derivative of praecoquere to bake or ripen early; pre-, cook ¹ ) + -ité -ity

Example Sentences

“I think there is a big misunderstanding between precocity and speed,” Ryan said.

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Her precocity gives the novel its wit, but Shteyngart is also alert to the fact that a child, however bright, is fundamentally helpless.

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Add six ODIs and a solitary T20i, it still makes for a dismal aggregate of international appearances for a batsman whose precocity had promised a long, dazzling career.

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“Such precocity, such regularity, is rare, almost unique. He’s someone who, if he is not injured, can manage to score between 45 and 55 goals each year, for years to come.”

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Youthful precocity is a given in Anderson’s movies, as are the stirrings of young love.

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Related Words

• ability 
• accomplishment 
• acumen 
• aptitude 
• brilliance 
• flair 
• imagination 
• ingenuity 
• inspiration 
• intelligence 
• inventiveness www.thesaurus.com
• originality 
• prodigy 
• prowess 
• talent 
• wisdom