maturity

noun

ma·​tu·​ri·​ty mə-ˈchu̇r-ə-tē 

-ˈchər-,

also

-ˈtu̇r- 

-ˈtyu̇r-

1

: the quality or state of being mature

especially : full development

the maturity of grain

maturity of judgment

lacks the wisdom and maturity needed to run the company

2

: termination of the period that an obligation (see obligation sense 2c) has to run

Synonyms

• adulthood
• adultness
• majority

Examples of maturity in a Sentence

His behavior shows a lack of maturity.

He reached emotional maturity late in his life.

the maturity level of a child

The bond will reach maturity in 10 years.

Maturities on these bonds can be as long as 10 years.

Recent Examples on the Web

The result was Pet Sounds, a stunning work of musical mastery and lyrical maturity, frequently ranked as one of the greatest albums of all time. —Jordan Runtagh, Peoplemag, 1 June 2024

The growing pains helped instill maturity in Wisely, who learned the necessity of exuding confidence amidst rough patches. —Justice Delos Santos, The Mercury News, 1 June 2024

This gives them enough space to grow to maturity underground. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 May 2024

The report found that children are more prone to exposure due to three factors: being outside more often, their physiological maturity and their body size. —Anabel Sosa, Los Angeles Times, 22 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

maturity

noun

ma·​tu·​ri·​ty mə-ˈt(y)u̇r-ət-ē 

1

: the quality or state of being mature

especially : full development

2

: the date when a note becomes due

Medical Definition

maturity

noun

ma·​tu·​ri·​ty

mə-ˈt(y)u̇r-ət-ē also -ˈchu̇r-

plural maturities

: the quality or state of being mature

especially : full development

Legal Definition

maturity

noun

ma·​tu·​ri·​ty mə-ˈtu̇r-ə-tē, -ˈchu̇r- 

: termination of the period that a note or other obligation has to run : state or condition of having become due