premature

adjective

pre·​ma·​ture ˌprē-mə-ˈchu̇r 

-ˈchər,

 also  -ˈtu̇r,

-ˈtyu̇r 

 also  ˌpre-

: happening, arriving, existing, or performed before the proper, usual, or intended time

especially : born after a gestation period of less than 37 weeks

premature babies

premature noun

prematurely adverb

prematureness noun

prematurity

ˌprē-mə-ˈchu̇r-ə-tē 

-ˈchər

-ˈtu̇r-

-ˈtyu̇r- 

noun

Synonyms

• early
• inopportune
• precocious
• unseasonable
• untimely

Examples of premature in a Sentence

Her premature death at age 30 stunned her family and friends.

Too much exposure to the sun can cause the premature aging of skin.

Recent Examples on the Web

But lifting Western sanctions is premature—Russia must take steps first. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 18 Mar. 2025

Similarly to wood, paper towels can eventually etch tears into leather, causing premature wear and tear. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Mar. 2025

Rosemary and Hair Color Some evidence suggests rosemary oil might help prevent premature graying of hair. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 13 Mar. 2025

Deriving from emission sources such as the combustion of gasoline and oil, it is linked to premature death, heart attacks and breathing difficulties. —Peter Guo, NBC News, 11 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin praematurus too early, from prae- + maturus ripe, mature

First Known Use

circa 1529, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for premature

• annexure
• embouchure
• epicure
• immature
• paramour
• reassure
• reinsure
• sinecure
• abjure
• adjure
• allure
• assure

Kids Definition

premature

adjective

pre·​ma·​ture ˌprē-mə-ˈt(y)u̇(ə)r  -ˈchu̇(ə)r 

: happening, coming, existing, or done before the proper or usual time

especially : born after a period of pregnancy of less than 37 weeks

premature babies

prematurely adverb

prematurity

-ˈt(y)u̇r-ət-ē  -ˈchu̇r- 

noun

Medical Definition

premature

1 of 2 adjective

pre·​ma·​ture

-mə-ˈt(y)u̇(ə)r, -ˈchu̇(ə)r, chiefly British ˌprem-ə-

: happening, arriving, existing, or performed before the proper, usual, or intended time

premature puberty

premature aging

especially : born after a gestation period of less than 37 weeks

premature babies

prematurely adverb

premature

2 of 2 noun

: preemie