puberty

Everyday

1. Puberty is the time, usually between about 9 and 16, when a child's body slowly changes into an adult's body. tree →
2. It is caused by natural chemicals in the body called hormones. tree →

In the lessons

In health and science lessons puberty explains growth spurts, body hair, voice changes, spots and stronger feelings; in stories it marks growing up. Phrases: «go through puberty», «reach puberty», «during puberty», «start puberty».

Examples

• Puberty is a normal part of growing up. tree →
• Many children go through puberty between the ages of 10 and 15. tree →
• Boys' voices get deeper during puberty. tree →
• Girls often start puberty a little earlier than boys. tree →
• Our health lesson was about the changes of puberty. tree →
• During puberty you may need to wash more often. tree →
• It is fine to ask a parent or the school nurse about puberty. tree →

Note

Uncountable: no «a puberty» and no plural. Pronounced PYOO-ber-tee. Everyone starts at a different time, and that is normal; early or late does not mean something is wrong.