Main Entry: mat·u·ra·tion

Pronunciation: \ˌma-chə-ˈrā-shən\

Function: noun

Date: 1541

1 a : the process of becoming mature b : the emergence of personal and behavioral characteristics through growth processes c : the final stages of differentiation of cells, tissues, or organs
2 a : the entire process by which diploid gamete-producing cells are transformed into haploid gametes that includes both meiosis and physiological and structural changes b : spermiogenesis

— mat·u·ra·tion·al \-shnəl, -shə-n^əl\ adjective