pubertal

Everyday

(science, formal) To do with puberty, the time, usually between about 8 and 16, when a child's body slowly changes into an adult's body: «pubertal changes», «pubertal growth spurt». tree →

In the lessons

In health and RSE lessons it describes normal changes that happen to everyone as they grow up, like a growth spurt, body hair and voice changes. It is a doctor's word; everyday speech just says «puberty» or «growing up». Phrases: «pubertal growth spurt», «pubertal changes», «pubertal age».

Examples

• The pubertal growth spurt can make you grow several centimetres in a year. tree →
• Pubertal changes happen at different ages for different children. tree →
• The doctor checked whether the boy was at a pubertal stage yet. tree →
• Feeling moody can be part of normal pubertal changes. tree →
• Health lessons explain pubertal changes so nobody is scared. tree →
• Pubertal growth often starts earlier in girls than in boys. tree →

Note

Noun: puberty (PEW-ber-tee). It is normal and happens to everyone at their own speed; there is no «right» age. If you have questions, ask a parent, school nurse or doctor.