The phrase "come of age" refers to the act or process of reaching the legal age at which an individual assumes full adult rights and responsibilities in a particular jurisdiction or society. It signifies the point at which a person transitions from childhood or adolescence to adulthood, often marked by a special celebration or ceremony.
When a person comes of age, they surpass the legal restrictions and constraints that are typically placed on minors, gaining the ability to make independent decisions and engage in various activities that were previously restricted to them. These may include voting, serving in the military, getting married without parental consent, signing legal documents, opening bank accounts, entering into contractual agreements, and purchasing alcohol or tobacco products, among others. The specific rights and responsibilities that come with reaching adulthood can vary widely depending on the jurisdiction and cultural context.
Additionally, "coming of age" is not solely limited to legal age but can also refer to a person maturing emotionally, intellectually, or socially. This development often involves gaining a deeper understanding of oneself and the world, acquiring life skills and knowledge, and forming one's own identity and values.
Overall, the notion of "coming of age" encapsulates the significant milestone in a person's life when they transition from being a minor to an adult, either in legal terms or in personal growth and maturity.
