Sextuplet: meaning, definitions and examples

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sextuplet

 

[ ˈsɛkstrəˌplɛt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

multiple births

A sextuplet is a group of six offspring born at one birth. This can occur in both human pregnancies and in animals. Sextuplets are quite rare compared to other multiples like twins or triplets. The term is often used in medical settings as well as in discussions about family planning and genetics.

Examples of usage

  • The couple was overjoyed when they welcomed sextuplets into their family.
  • Sextuplets require special medical attention during and after delivery.
  • Documentaries often highlight the challenges of raising sextuplet children.
  • Sextuplets may be conceived naturally or through assisted reproductive technologies.

Translations

Translations of the word "sextuplet" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sexteto

🇮🇳 छठी जोड़ी

🇩🇪 Sechling

🇮🇩 sextuplet

🇺🇦 секстет

🇵🇱 sześcioplet

🇯🇵 六重奏

🇫🇷 sextuor

🇪🇸 sexteto

🇹🇷 altılı

🇰🇷 육중주

🇸🇦 توأم سداسي

🇨🇿 šestipleť

🇸🇰 šestipleť

🇨🇳 六重奏

🇸🇮 šestica

🇮🇸 sexþykkni

🇰🇿 алтыпартия

🇬🇪 ექვსეული

🇦🇿 altılı

🇲🇽 sexteto

Word origin

The term 'sextuplet' is derived from the Latin root 'sextus', meaning 'sixth'. It combines 'sextus' with the English suffix '-uplet', which denotes a group of a certain number of parts. Originally, the word reflects the concept of multiples resulting from a single pregnancy, distinguishing sextuplets from other multiples such as twins (two) and triplets (three). The first known use of the term in English dates back to the early 20th century, aligning with increasing scientific interest in multiple births. As medical advancements allowed for better prenatal care, the births of sextuplets became more recorded and discussed, especially in the context of assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). Over time, the use of 'sextuplet' garnered attention not just in medical literature but also in popular culture, highlighting the challenges and joys of families with multiple births.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,530, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.