Definition

Referring to an individual that is not yet fully grown or developed into an adult stage.

Example

The subadult animals were still learning how to hunt from their parents.

Conversation

Did you see that bird outside?

Yeah, it looks like a subadult trying to find its way.

I wonder how long it takes for them to become adults.

Probably a few months, but they still look pretty cute as subadult birds.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A person or animal that is not yet fully grown or developed into an adult.

Example

The subadult eagle was still learning to hunt on its own.

Conversation

Did you see that subadult eagle at the park yesterday?

Yeah, it looked so majestic flying around!

I wonder how long it takes for them to become fully adult.

Root Explanation

Subadult → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "adult" (from Latin "adultus", meaning grown or mature). The word "subadult" refers to an individual that is not yet fully grown or mature, existing in a stage below adulthood.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'under' ('sub-') being fully 'grown' ('adult') — that's why subadult refers to someone who is not yet fully mature.

Visually Confused Words