fertility

noun

fer·​til·​i·​ty (ˌ)fər-ˈti-lə-tē 

1

: the quality or state of being fertile

2

: the birth rate of a population

Examples of fertility in a Sentence

She studied the effects of pollution on the fertility of the local fish population.

The doctor ordered a test of his fertility.

The area is known for its soil fertility.

the fertility of his imagination

Recent Examples on the Web

The Heritage Foundation’s Yenor dismisses the notion that elite sports pose any threat to male fertility, observing to SciAm that, since 1990, Super Bowl–winning quarterbacks have had a higher than average number of children. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 18 Aug. 2026

In fact, the team suggests the material may have been collected during births – a suitable symbol of fertility in a society led by women. — Mike McRae 17, New Atlas, 17 Aug. 2026

Chemotherapy and endocrine therapy can affect ovarian function and fertility, which is why fertility preservation should ideally be discussed before treatment begins. — Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 17 Aug. 2026

Michigan’s fertility rate has declined significantly, and younger adults have been more likely to move out of the state and less likely to move into it. — Jason Burns, The Conversation, 17 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for fertility

• ability
• agility
• civility
• debility
• docility
• ductility
• facility
• fragility
• futility
• gentility
• hostility
• humility

Medical Definition

fertility

noun

fer·​til·​i·​ty (ˌ)fər-ˈtil-ət-ē 

plural fertilities

1

: the quality or state of being fertile

2

: the birth rate of a population