menopause

noun

men·​o·​pause ˈme-nə-ˌpȯz How to pronounce menopause (audio)
ˈmē-
1
: the natural cessation of menstruation that usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55
also : the period during which such cessation occurs

called also climacteric

compare perimenopause
2
: cessation of menstruation from other than natural causes
menopausal adjective

Examples of menopause 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.
Hormonal changes, especially during menopause, further weaken the tissue supporting the nipple. Brandi Jones, Msn-Ed, Health, 2 Nov. 2024 While doctors still don’t know exactly why MS affects more women than men, studies have shown that hormonal fluctuations can exacerbate symptoms, and women report that MS symptoms often flare up when going through their menstrual cycles and during menopause, when hormones typically are in change. Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 30 Oct. 2024 In particular, post-menopausal women benefit from weight training, as bone loss is common during menopause. Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 30 Oct. 2024 Out, which was inspired by founder Rosie Johnston’s experiences in menopause. Emily Burns, WWD, 27 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for menopause 

Word History

Etymology

French ménopause, from méno- men- + pause stop, pause

First Known Use

1822, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of menopause was in 1822

Dictionary Entries Near menopause

Cite this Entry

“Menopause.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/menopause. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

menopause

noun
meno·​pause
ˈmen-ə-ˌpȯz
: the period of life when menstruation permanently stops naturally that usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55
menopausal
ˌmen-ə-ˈpȯ-zəl
adjective

Medical Definition

menopause

noun
meno·​pause ˈmen-ə-ˌpȯz How to pronounce menopause (audio) ˈmēn- How to pronounce menopause (audio)
1
a(1)
: the natural cessation of menstruation occurring usually between the ages of 45 and 55
… osteoporosis, which increases the risk of hip and spine fractures, is a well-known consequence of menopause.Daniel D. Federman, The New England Journal of Medicine
(2)
: the physiological period in the life of a woman in which such cessation and the accompanying regression of ovarian function occurs
Hot flashes plague many women undergoing menopauseK. A. Fackelmann, Science News

called also climacteric, climax

compare perimenopause
b
: cessation of menstruation from other than natural causes (as from surgical removal of the ovaries)
Premature menopause due to surgery or ovarian failure …Mary Duenwald, O: The Oprah Magazine
2
menopausal adjective
menopausal symptoms
menopausal women

More from Merriam-Webster on menopause

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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