Definition

1. Noun:
   • A physical trait that differs between the sexes but is not directly involved in the reproductive system. These characteristics develop during puberty under the influence of sex hormones and are often associated with sexual maturity and dimorphism.

Usage

• The term is used in biology, medicine, and psychology to describe the physical changes that accompany sexual maturation, distinguishing males from females beyond the primary reproductive organs.
• It is typically used in the singular form to refer to the general concept or in the plural form ("secondary sex characteristics") to refer to multiple specific traits.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The development of facial hair in males is a well-known secondary sex characteristic.
  • During adolescence, several secondary sex characteristics, such as breast development and voice changes, become apparent.
  • Biologists study how hormones regulate the expression of secondary sex characteristics.

Advanced Usage

• The concept is often contrasted with primary sex characteristics, which are the reproductive organs themselves (e.g., testes, ovaries).
• In evolutionary biology, some secondary sex characteristics are discussed as potential results of sexual selection, serving roles in mate attraction or competition.

Variants and Related Words

• Secondary sexual characteristic: A less common but synonymous variant.
• Sexual dimorphism: The condition where the two sexes of the same species exhibit different characteristics beyond the differences in their sexual organs. Secondary sex characteristics are a primary contributor to sexual dimorphism.

Synonyms

• Secondary sexual characteristic
• Sexual dimorphism trait (in a broader context)

Antonyms

• Primary sex characteristic: The sex organs directly involved in reproduction.

Noun

1. the genetically determined sex characteristics that are not functionally necessary for reproduction (pitch of the voice and body hair and musculature)