mature

(mə-tyo͝orˈ, -to͝orˈ, -cho͝orˈ)

1. a. Having reached full natural growth or development: a mature cell.
   b. Having reached a desired or final condition; ripe: a mature cheese.
2. Of, relating to, or characteristic of full development, either mental or physical: mature for her age.
3. a. Suitable or intended for adults: mature subject matter.
   b. Composed of adults: a mature audience.
4. Worked out fully by the mind; considered: a mature plan of action.
5. Having reached the limit of its time; due: a mature bond.
6. No longer subject to great expansion or development. Used of an industry, a market, or a product.
7. Geology Having reached maximum development of form. Used of streams and landforms.

1. To bring to full development; ripen.
2. To work out fully in the mind: “able to digest and mature my thoughts for my own mind only” (John Stuart Mill).

1. To evolve toward or reach full development: The child's judgment matures as she grows older.
2. To become due. Used of notes and bonds.

Related Forms:

• ma·tureˈly adverb

• ma·tureˈness noun