Definition

Describing the time before a person reaches puberty, when their body has not yet developed secondary sexual characteristics.

Example

The prepubescent children were excited about their upcoming school trip.

Conversation

I saw a documentary about prepubescent kids learning about their bodies.

Oh really? What did they talk about?

They discussed how prepubescent changes can affect their emotions too.

That makes sense, it's such a confusing time for them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A child who has not yet reached puberty, typically characterized by the absence of secondary sexual characteristics.

Example

The prepubescent child enjoyed playing games with friends.

Conversation

Have you seen that new show about prepubescent kids trying to navigate school life?

Yeah, I caught a couple of episodes; it's pretty funny!

I think it really captures the awkwardness of being a prepubescent child.

Root Explanation

Prepubescent → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "pubescent" (from Latin "pubescere", meaning to grow hair or reach puberty). The word describes the stage before reaching puberty, when a person has not yet developed secondary sexual characteristics.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pre-' meaning before and 'pubescent' relating to the stage of growing up — prepubescent refers to the time before someone reaches that stage.

Visually Confused Words