pregnancy

noun

preg·​nan·​cy ˈpreg-nən(t)-sē 

plural pregnancies

1

: the quality of being pregnant (as in meaning)

2

: the condition of being pregnant : gestation

3

: an instance of being pregnant

Synonyms

• family way
• gestation
• gravidity

Examples of pregnancy in a Sentence

an elephant's pregnancy can last almost a year

Recent Examples on the Web

Here are the most common: To treat melasma, the dark spots that may appear on the skin of the upper lip, cheeks, and forehead during pregnancy or due to other hormonal issues. —Ana Morales, Vogue, 6 Jan. 2025

One risk when using retinoids is severe harm to an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. —Ashley Wong, Health, 5 Jan. 2025

Jones and Guard share two children Jones and Guard welcomed their first child, a son, in April 2020, following the December 2019 announcement of her pregnancy. —Jane Lacroix, People.com, 4 Jan. 2025

Implantation bleeding occurs in about 25% of pregnancies in the first trimester. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 4 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pregnancy

• ectopic pregnancy
• false pregnancy
• phantom pregnancy
• pregnancy test
• tubal pregnancy

Kids Definition

pregnancy

noun

preg·​nan·​cy ˈpreg-nən(t)-sē 

plural pregnancies

: the condition of being pregnant : gestation

Medical Definition

pregnancy

noun

preg·​nan·​cy ˈpreg-nən-sē 

plural pregnancies

1

: the condition of being pregnant

2

: an instance of being pregnant