prepuberty

[pree-pyoo-ber-tee]

noun

Physiology.

1. the period of life just prior to sexual maturation.

Other Word Forms

• prepubertal adjective
• prepuberal adjective
• prepubertally adverb
• prepuberally adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of prepuberty¹

First recorded in 1920–25; pre- + puberty

Example Sentences

"Even if no sign of puberty becomes noticeable," he said, "this age of the girl marks the end of prepuberty phase."

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That means the sons of men who smoke in prepuberty will be at higher risk for obesity and other health problems well into adulthood.

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