Adultness

/ˈædʌltnɪs/ noun

Definition

The quality or state of being fully grown or mature; the condition of having reached adulthood.

Etymology

From 'adult' (Latin 'adultus') + '-ness' (Old English '-nes'). The abstract noun form indicating the state of being adult.

Kelly Says

Different cultures mark 'adultness' at wildly different ages and through different rituals—some at 13, some at 16, some at 21, and some through initiation ceremonies rather than birthdays, showing that adulthood is culturally constructed, not biologically fixed.

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