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 One ligand that stands out is folate, also referred to as vitamin B9, a small molecule critical during periods of rapid cell growth such as fetal development. Andrea Kasinski, The Conversation, 7 Oct. 2024 There are no exceptions to the ban for fatal fetal anomalies. Eva Epker, Forbes, 5 Oct. 2024 Folate is critical for neurological health and fetal brain development, while niacin and thiamin are required for energy metabolism, cellular function, and growth. Jillian Kubala, Health, 1 Oct. 2024 Typically, healthcare providers perform a fetal echocardiogram in the second trimester, between weeks 18 and 22 of pregnancy.2 These images can help healthcare providers detect the early signs of some types of CHD. Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 18 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fetal 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'fetal.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1736, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fetal was in 1736

Dictionary Entries Near fetal

Cite this Entry

“Fetal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fetal. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.

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

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