menopause Definition

menopause
noun

1. The period in a woman's life, typically between the ages of 45 and 55, when menstruation ceases and pregnancy is no longer possible. Also called change of life, the change. See also male menopause.

Derivative: menopausal

Relating to or experiencing the menopause and associated hormonal changes.

colloq
Suffering from strange moods and behaviour in middle age.

Etymology: 19c: from French ménopause, from Greek men month + pausis cessation.