n 1 a  :  the process of becoming mature  b  :  the emergence of personal and behavioral characteristics through growth processes  c  :  the final stages of differentiation of cells, tissues, or organs  d  :  the achievement of intellectual or emotional maturity  2 a  :  the entire process by which diploid gamete-producing cells are transformed into haploid gametes that includes both meiosis and physiological and structural changes fitting the gamete for its future role  b  :  SPERMIOGENESIS 2 ma*tur*a*tive adj 
 
 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.