premature
UK: ˈprɛmətjʊə | US: ˌpriːməˈtʃʊr
adj. occurring or done before the usual or proper time; too early
adj. (of a baby) born before the normal gestation period (typically 37 weeks)
adj. undeveloped or immature in quality or function
premature = pre<before> + mature<ripe>
- pre: From Latin prae-, meaning "before." Used in English to indicate precedence in time or position.
- mature: From Latin maturus, meaning "ripe, timely." Retains the core sense of readiness or completeness.
Etymology Origin:
The word "premature" combines pre- (before) and mature (ripe/ready), directly reflecting its meaning of "before readiness." Originally applied to fruits or plans, it later extended to births and abstract concepts (e.g., decisions). The Latin roots prae- and maturus were merged in Middle French prématuré, entering English in the 15th century with a focus on untimeliness.
The premature announcement caused confusion among investors.
Babies born premature often require specialized medical care.
His criticism felt premature, as the project was still in its early stages.
The tree bore premature fruit due to the unseasonably warm weather.
She regretted her premature judgment after learning the full story.