thelarche
English
editEtymology
editFrom Ancient Greek θηλή (thēlḗ, “nipple”) + -arche.
Pronunciation
editNoun
editthelarche (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.
- Coordinate term: menarche
- The process of breast development or the period of such development.