preadolescence

[ pree-ad-l-es-uhns ]

noun

1. the period preceding adolescence, usually designated as the years from 10 to 13.

Word History and Origins

Origin of preadolescence¹

First recorded in 1925–30; pre- + adolescence

Example Sentences

Even among conservatories, it is exceptional, with a wide age range — from preadolescence to post-baccalaureate adulthood — and a personalized approach, of schedules and repertoire, for musicians who live almost entirely for their art.

From New York Times

Even among conservatories, it is exceptional, with a wide age range — from preadolescence to post-baccalaureate adulthood — and a personalized approach, of schedules and repertoire, for musicians who live almost entirely for their art.

From New York Times

"It seems like wherever you had your developmental life preadolescence and adolescence tends to be where your thermostat is tuned."

From Salon

"It seems like wherever you had your developmental life preadolescence and adolescence tends to be where your thermostat is tuned. I think there's very complex genetics that play into that and where you feel good."

From Salon

Sex with men, even then, had always been part of my life, forming an unbroken arc from preadolescence into adulthood.

From New York Times

Related Words

• adolescence