thelarche en · NOUN
Pronunciation
- /θiˈlɑɹ.ki/ (US)
Etymology
From Ancient Greek θηλή (thēlḗ, “nipple”) + -arche. By surface analysis, thel- + -arche.
Meanings
- (uncountable) The first stage of postnatal breast development, usually occurring at the beginning of puberty in girls, in which a firm, tender lump develops under the centre of the nipple.
- (uncountable) The process of breast development or the period of such development.