preeclampsia

noun

pre·​eclamp·​sia ˌprē-i-ˈklam(p)-sē-ə How to pronounce preeclampsia (audio)
: a serious condition developing in late pregnancy that is characterized by a sudden rise in blood pressure, excessive weight gain, generalized edema, proteinuria, severe headache, and visual disturbances and that may result in eclampsia if untreated
preeclamptic adjective

Examples of preeclampsia 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.
Together the pair engaged in a powerful conversation, with Meghan opening up about the realities of new motherhood, including her experience with postpartum preeclampsia. Kirsty Hatcher, People.com, 8 Apr. 2025 Most pregnant people are warned about the risks of preeclampsia during pregnancy, which typically manifests as swelling in hands, feet, and face, and can result in premature birth for the baby and even stroke or kidney failure for the person giving birth if not properly treated. Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 8 Apr. 2025 For pregnant people, COVID infections are associated with severe illness, a high risk of hospitalization, ICU admission, respiratory complications, blood clots and an elevated risk of preeclampsia, Dr. Chelliah says. Wendy Wisner, Parents, 14 Mar. 2025 For pregnant women, benefits of exercise while pregnant can lower the probability of developing gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and hemorrhoids, Hughes said. William Lambers, Newsweek, 8 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for preeclampsia

Word History

Etymology

New Latin

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of preeclampsia was in 1923

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Preeclampsia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preeclampsia. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

preeclampsia

noun
pre·​eclamp·​sia ˌprē-i-ˈklam(p)-sē-ə How to pronounce preeclampsia (audio)
: a serious condition developing in late pregnancy that is characterized by a sudden rise in blood pressure, excessive weight gain, generalized edema, proteinuria, severe headache, and visual disturbances and that may result in eclampsia if untreated compare eclampsia sense a, toxemia of pregnancy

More from Merriam-Webster on preeclampsia

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