: retained in the uterus for the normal period of gestation before birth
a full-term newborn

Examples of full-term 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.
The trajectory of her life was far less certain than for a full-term infant who went straight home after delivery. Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 4 Dec. 2024 This time, doctors were uncertain if Grinham’s left side would be able to hold the weight of her baby and believed part of the problem of carrying to full-term pregnancy was because of her left side’s propensity to collapse. Charlotte Harpur, The Athletic, 25 Aug. 2024 The new law adds restrictions for women coming to ERs with miscarriages, and can also complicate care for people delivering full-term babies. Susan Rinkunas, refinery29.com, 28 Oct. 2024 While Wilcox's due date was Oct. 27, doctors had planned to induce her on Oct. 4, just one day shy of a full-term pregnancy. Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 16 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for full-term 

Word History

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of full-term was in 1844

Dictionary Entries Near full-term

Cite this Entry

“Full-term.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/full-term. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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