Adultlike

/ˈædʌltˌlaɪk/ adjective

Definition

Resembling or characteristic of an adult; having qualities typical of grown-ups.

Etymology

From 'adult' (from Latin 'adultus,' grown) + '-like' (Old English 'gelic,' similar to). A straightforward compound meaning 'similar to an adult.'

Kelly Says

Developmental psychologists use 'adultlike' to describe when children start showing mature behaviors—a 10-year-old displaying 'adultlike responsibility' is actually performing beyond their typical age stage, showing precocious maturity.

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