fertilization

noun

fer·​til·​i·​za·​tion ˌfər-tə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce fertilization (audio)
: an act or process of making fertile: such as
a
: the application of fertilizer
b(1)
: an act or process of fecundation, insemination, or pollination
not used technically
(2)
: the process of union of two gametes whereby the somatic chromosome number is restored and the development of a new individual is initiated

Examples of fertilization in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Since 1978, millions of babies have been born using in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Alexandra York, Forbes, 16 Dec. 2024 With in-vitro fertilization (IVF), a surgeon removes an egg from the female, applies the male's sperm to the egg, and transplants the resulting embryo back into the uterus (womb).2 Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a less invasive option. Mark Gurarie, Health, 14 Dec. 2024 After dealing with fertility issues, Kelly underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) with Matthew's support. Nasha Smith, People.com, 8 Dec. 2024 The luteal phase occurs from days 15 to 28 when the follicle that released the egg increases progesterone levels for pregnancy or degrades if fertilization does not occur. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 27 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fertilization 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1787, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fertilization was circa 1787

Dictionary Entries Near fertilization

Cite this Entry

“Fertilization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fertilization. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

fertilization

noun
fer·​til·​i·​za·​tion ˌfərt-ᵊl-ə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce fertilization (audio)
1
: an act or process of making fertile
especially : the application of fertilizer
2
: the union of male and female germ cells to form a zygote

Medical Definition

fertilization

noun
fer·​til·​iza·​tion
variants or British fertilisation
: an act or process of making fertile: as
a
: an act or process of fecundation, insemination, or impregnation
b
: the process of union of two gametes whereby the somatic chromosome number is restored and the development of a new individual is initiated
fertilize transitive verb
or British fertilise
fertilized or British fertilised; fertilizing or British fertilising

More from Merriam-Webster on fertilization

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