in vitro

adverb or adjective

in vi·​tro in-ˈvē-(ˌ)trō  -ˈvi- 

-ˈwē-

: outside the living body and in an artificial environment

Examples of in vitro in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Lab research on human embryos, usually donated by in vitro fertilization patients, remains strictly regulated in most countries and is usually only permitted for a period of 14 days after the embryo’s creation. — Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 8 July 2026

The world’s first in vitro fertilization baby, Louise Joy Brown, was born to parents Lesley and Peter Brown in Manchester, England. — USA Today, 7 July 2026

Carmani was born on May 31, 2006, and CeCe became pregnant through in vitro fertilization soon after. — Nasha Smith, PEOPLE, 23 June 2026

Advancements have also greatly extended the number of days human embryos can grow in vitro at the earliest stages of pregnancy. — Alex Morris, Rolling Stone, 19 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, literally, in glass

First Known Use

circa 1894, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for in vitro

• nitro

Kids Definition

in vitro

adverb or adjective

in vi·​tro in-ˈvē-(ˌ)trō 

: outside the living body and in an artificial environment

an egg fertilized in vitro

Etymology

Latin, literally, "in glass"

Medical Definition

in vitro

adverb or adjective

in vi·​tro in-ˈvē-(ˌ)trō  -ˈvi- 

: outside the living body and in an artificial environment

growth of cells in vitro

in vitro studies