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Fetal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fetal

[ˈfiːtl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

developmental stage

Fetal refers to the developmental stage of a human or animal during the gestation period, typically after the embryonic stage and before birth. In humans, this stage begins at the end of the eighth week of pregnancy and lasts until delivery.

Synonyms

embryonic, gestational.

Examples of usage

  • The fetal heart rate is monitored during pregnancy.
  • Doctors conduct ultrasounds to assess fetal development.
  • Abnormalities in fetal growth can indicate health issues.
  • The fetal stage is critical for organ development.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'fetal'

The term 'fetal' originates from the Latin word 'fetus,' which means 'offspring' or 'bringing forth.' It is derived from the verb 'fieri,' meaning 'to produce' or 'to make.' The word began to be used in the English language in the late 19th century and has since evolved to describe the specific stage of development in mammals, particularly during pregnancy. The fetal stage encompasses significant changes in morphology and physiology, making it a crucial period for growth and development. The use of the term in medical literature has increased with advances in prenatal care and ultrasound technologies, reflecting a growing emphasis on understanding and monitoring fetal health.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,490 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.