Prepubescent
(adjective)
Relating to or occurring in the period before puberty.
Origin:
Derived from the prefix 'pre-' meaning 'before' and the word 'pubescent' meaning 'of or relating to puberty'.
Examples:
- The child is going through the prepubescent stage of development.
- Prepubescent children have not yet reached sexual maturity.
- The study focused on the physical and emotional changes during the prepubescent years.
- Prepubescent girls often experience growth spurts before the onset of puberty.
- The prepubescent brain is still developing and can be easily influenced by outside factors.