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.
The study couldn’t distinguish whether the tau measured in newborns came from fetal or adult versions of the protein, which may behave differently. New Atlas, 30 June 2025 From a strictly pro-life perspective, Dobbs undeniably reduces abortions, saving thousands of fetal lives annually. Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 27 June 2025 Measuring fetal testosterone exposure would require continuous monitoring of levels in the amniotic fluid, which isn’t feasible. Julia Ries, Health, 24 June 2025 Online, rumors spread that the new leadership planned to remove the fetal remains, or to close the museum to the public altogether. Rachel Monroe, New Yorker, 23 June 2025 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 3 Jul. 2025.

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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