Definition of grown-upnext
as in mature
relating to or typical of adults; displaying proper maturity they have yet to find a grown-up way of handling their marital problems

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

grown-up

2 of 3

noun

grown up

3 of 3

verb

past participle of grow up

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of grown-up
Adjective
Working with sister stylist duo Chloe and Chenelle Delgadillo, Rodrigo has reconstructed her signature looks to feel softer and more grown-up, with outfits drawing from fashion references just as diverse as her musical taste. — Chelsey Sanchez, CNN Money, 25 June 2026 There was something so exciting about holding those glowing wands and feeling just a little grown-up while doing it. — Abby Price, Southern Living, 17 June 2026
Noun
Reportedly shot for less than $100,000, this tale of Pooh and Piglet all grown-up and running amok recently opened to box office success in Mexico and is currently playing on cinema screens around America. — Clark Collis, EW.com, 16 Feb. 2023
Verb
Many of today’s media consumers have grown up consuming media in seconds-long bursts, and the industry is still trying to develop strategies to connect with these viewers, said Puente, who began teaching at CSUF in 2006. — Lou Ponsi, Oc Register, 25 May 2026 Although Buffington is a native Californian, Jayne had grown up in Hampton Bays and never imagined leaving the area behind. — Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 24 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for grown-up
Recent Examples of Synonyms for grown-up
Adjective
  • Ultimately, the goal isn't to cleanse mature skin as aggressively as possible.
    — Casey DelBasso, ABC News, 25 Sep. 2026
  • Today, the property remains framed by mature specimen plantings, a sweeping grassland meadow, walking paths, and the historic Piping Rock—a geological landmark tied to local Native American lore.
    — Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 24 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Four in 10 American kids will become adults hampered by obesity, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, or other conditions that can limit their opportunities and shorten their lives.
    — Stanley McChrystal, STAT, 29 Sep. 2026
  • The toddler was hit in the leg by a bullet as an adult was cleaning their gun in the Tulare County residence, the county Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
    — Terry Castleman, Los Angeles Times, 28 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Maduko’s behavior, as described in the report, appears to have grown increasingly aggressive in his alleged harassment of women in the CSCU system.
    — Kevin Rennie, Hartford Courant, 26 Sep. 2026
  • Since news of the relocation spread, the restaurant has grown quieter.
    — Laura Rodríguez Presa, Chicago Tribune, 26 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Grown-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/grown-up. Accessed 29 Sep. 2026.

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