developmental

adjective

de·​vel·​op·​men·​tal dē-ˌve-ləp-ˈmen-tᵊl 

1

a

: of, relating to, or being development

developmental processes

developmental biology

broadly : experimental sense 2

developmental aircraft

b

: serving economic development

developmental highways

2

: designed to assist growth or bring about improvement (as of a skill)

developmental toys

developmentally

dē-ˌve-ləp-ˈmen-tᵊl-ē 

adverb

Synonyms

• experimental
• pilot
• trial

Examples of developmental in a Sentence

A drop in temperature can slow the plant's developmental process.

a child with developmental abnormalities

My theory is still in its developmental stage.

Recent Examples on the Web

According to the team, figure research could investigate how brain network function differs between individuals of different ages or developmental or psychiatric disorders. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 6 Nov. 2024

In addition to developmental and cardiovascular problems, low-level lead poisoning is associated with hypertension and chronic kidney failure in adults. —Zack Budryk, The Hill, 30 Oct. 2024

Their symptoms may include learning and developmental issues, weight loss, fatigue, stomach issues, hearing loss and seizures. —Hannah Yasharoff, USA TODAY, 28 Oct. 2024

And the role of a parent is obviously to look after kids’ well-being, developmental needs, and future success, as Canonico points out. —Melissa Willets, Parents, 26 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing developmental

• developmental biology
• developmental disability
• developmental disorder
• evolutionary developmental biology
• pervasive developmental disorder

Kids Definition

developmental

adjective

de·​vel·​op·​men·​tal -ˌvel-əp-ˈment-əl 

: of or relating to development

developmentally

-əl-ē 

adverb