noun, Psychiatry. 1. an inability to speak, due to a physical defect, conscious refusal, or psychogenic inhibition. Origin of mutism.
1 A new study finds girls are developing breasts earlier than ever before; American boys and girls are entering puberty about five years younger than they did in 1920.
Changes in Girls. The onset of sexual maturation in girls usually begins about two years earlier than it does in boys. The process of puberty can take anywhere from two to six years and can begin anytime between ages 8 and 14. (If a girl begins developing before age 8, puberty is considered to be premature, and a doctor should be consulted.). An increase in height usually begins at age 10 to 11 and continues to age 15 to 16.