Developmental

/dɪˌvɛləpˈmɛntəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to the process of growth, change, and maturation over time, especially in living organisms or systems.

Etymology

From French 'développer' meaning to unwrap or unfold, composed of 'des-' (un-) and 'voloper' (to wrap). The biological sense emerged in the 19th century as scientists studied growth processes.

Kelly Says

The original meaning of 'develop' was literally to unwrap something - like unrolling a scroll or opening a package. This beautiful metaphor suggests that growth is really about revealing what was already there, wrapped up and waiting to emerge.

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