Definition

The period in a person's life just before they reach puberty, when their body begins to develop and change.

Example

Children experience various changes during prepubescence as they approach adolescence.

Conversation

Do you remember your days of prepubescence?

Yeah, it was such an awkward time for everyone.

I know, right? I was so confused about everything.

Same here! It's hard to believe how much we've grown since then.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prepubescence → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "pubescere" (from Latin, meaning to reach puberty). The word refers to the stage of development that occurs before the onset of puberty.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pre-' meaning before and 'pubescence' relating to puberty — prepubescence is the stage before reaching puberty.

Visually Confused Words