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.
1 For girls, puberty can start as early as age 7Â½ years or as late as age 13. 2  Their breasts begin to develop and their hips get wider. 3  Girls start to grow underarm hair and pubic hair, and have a growth spurt.4  They start having menstrual periods about 2 to 3 years after their breasts start to develop. For girls, puberty can start as early as age 7Â½ years or as late as age 13. 2  Their breasts begin to develop and their hips get wider. 3  Girls start to grow underarm hair and pubic hair, and have a growth spurt.