fetal

adjective

fe·​tal ˈfē-tᵊl How to pronounce fetal (audio)
: of, relating to, or being a fetus

Examples of fetal 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.
Numerous studies have linked marijuana use during pregnancy to autism, poor fetal development, low infant birth weight, dangerously early deliveries and even death. Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2025 Importantly, weight loss itself provides no benefits to pregnant patients and may cause fetal harm. Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Sep. 2025 That can lead to miscarriage, fetal death or stillbirth. Michal Ruprecht, NPR, 8 Sep. 2025 However, pregnant women with autoimmune diseases still face a far higher likelihood of having serious complications, including preterm birth or even fetal loss. Kristen Demoruelle, The Conversation, 27 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fetal

Word History

First Known Use

1736, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fetal was in 1736

Cite this Entry

“Fetal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fetal. Accessed 12 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

fetal

adjective
fe·​tal ˈfēt-ᵊl How to pronounce fetal (audio)
: of, relating to, or being a fetus

Medical Definition

fetal

adjective
fe·​tal
variants or chiefly British foetal
: of, relating to, or being a fetus

More from Merriam-Webster on fetal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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