maturity

What it means

1. countableuncountableThe state of being mature, ready or ripe; the prime state of productibility and self expression.

   The ability to take responsibility is a sign of maturity.

   1 more example

   Some foods and drinks, like wine, only reach their full taste at maturity, which literally comes at a price.

2. countableuncountableWhen bodily growth has completed and/or reproduction can begin.

   The entire tank of guppies was in their maturity and ready to mate.

   1 more example

   Some insect species reach sexual maturity well before their own bodily maturity

3. countablebusinessThe state of a debt obligation at the end of the term of maturation thereof, once all interest and any applicable fees have accrued to the principal.

In a sentence

Some foods and drinks, like wine, only reach their full taste at maturity, which literally comes at a price.

Where it comes from

1. Latinmātūritātem
2. Old Frenchmaturité
3. Middle Englishmaturitee
4. Englishmaturity

From Middle English maturitee, maturyte, from Old French maturité, from Latin mātūritātem. By surface analysis, mature + -ity.