Miscarry Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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miscarry

[mษชsหˆkรฆri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

medical term

To miscarry means to lose a pregnancy before the fetus can live independently outside the womb, typically before the 20th week of gestation. It is a common occurrence, affecting many pregnancies and often happening due to various health issues or genetic factors.

Synonyms

abort, lose, terminate.

Examples of usage

  • She was devastated when she learned she had miscarried.
  • Many women experience fear of miscarrying in their first trimester.
  • They were thankful for the support after her recent miscarriage.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medical Understanding

  • It's estimated that 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage, often before the 12th week.
  • Common causes include genetic problems with the baby, hormonal imbalances in the mother, or health issues.
  • Emotional support is crucial for individuals experiencing miscarriage to help deal with grief.

Cultural Perceptions

  • Historically, many cultures viewed miscarriage as a taboo topic, leading to a lack of support for parents.
  • In some traditions, rituals or memorials are held to honor lost pregnancies, helping families find closure.
  • Modern conversations around miscarriage have grown, encouraging openness and awareness about its prevalence.

Psychological Impact

  • Miscarriage can lead to feelings of grief, loss, and sometimes guilt, impacting mental health.
  • Counseling or support groups can provide important resources for those coping with the emotional aftermath.
  • Research shows that discussing feelings about a miscarriage can aid in the healing process.

Scientific Research

  • Studies are ongoing to better understand the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to miscarriages.
  • Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking and obesity, have been correlated with higher miscarriage rates.
  • New technologies are being developed to help predict potential risks in pregnancies to reduce miscarriage occurrences.

Origin of 'miscarry'

The term 'miscarry' originates from the combination of the prefix 'mis-', which generally indicates a wrong or bad action, and the word 'carry', meaning to support or hold. The etymology can be traced back to Middle English 'miscarren', combining the concept of a failure or mishap in carrying a pregnancy. Over time, 'miscarry' has been specifically associated with the loss of pregnancy, reflecting both the physical and emotional challenges that come with it. Historically, miscarriages have been documented since ancient times, with varying cultural perceptions and responses to the event, leading to a rich linguistic evolution of the term.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,629 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.