der Erwachsene
Translation
adult, grown-up
Examples
Ein Erwachsener muss Verantwortung übernehmen.
An adult has to take responsibility.
Der Film ist nur für Erwachsene.
The film is for adults only.
Grammar Patterns
((as subject)) ... has to take responsibility Ein Erwachsener muss Verantwortung übernehmen.
((für+4)) to be for ... The film is only for Erwachsene.
Similar Words
Synonym: Volljähriger (person of legal age); Antonyms: Kind (child), Jugendlicher (adolescent)
Etymology
From the verb 'erwachsen' (to grow up), which comes from 'wachsen' (to grow). The prefix 'er-' often indicates completion, so it means 'one who has grown up'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'wachsen' being related to 'wax' (like a waxing moon 'grows'). An 'Erwachsener' is someone who has finished 'waxing' or growing.