fetal

adjective

fe·​tal ˈfē-tᵊl How to pronounce fetal (audio)
: of, relating to, or being a fetus

Examples of fetal 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.
During pregnancy, common reasons for seeking care include early labor, bleeding, changes in fetal movement, or high blood pressure. Memorialcare Medical Group, Oc Register, 10 Jan. 2026 Folate is an essential vitamin that supports cell division and, for pregnant people, healthy fetal development. Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 9 Jan. 2026 Why First Trimester Care Matters Health care providers recommend people start taking prenatal vitamins three to four months before trying to conceive so that their bodies are prepped for pregnancy and filled with the nutrients needed to support fetal development. Hannah Nwoko, Parents, 4 Jan. 2026 But daughter Opal June Ixchel Cruz and Sara Cruz's maternal fetal medicine doctor had different ideas. Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 3 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fetal

Word History

First Known Use

1736, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fetal was in 1736

Cite this Entry

“Fetal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fetal. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

fetal

adjective
fe·​tal ˈfēt-ᵊl How to pronounce fetal (audio)
: of, relating to, or being a fetus

Medical Definition

fetal

adjective
fe·​tal
variants or chiefly British foetal
: of, relating to, or being a fetus

More from Merriam-Webster on fetal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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