perimenopause

noun

peri·​men·​o·​pause ˌper-ē-ˈme-nə-ˌpȯz 

-ˈmē-

: the period around the onset of menopause that is often marked by various physical signs (such as hot flashes and menstrual irregularity)

perimenopausal

ˌper-ē-ˌme-nə-ˈpȯ-zəl 

-ˌmē-

adjective

Examples of perimenopause in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

During perimenopause, women have a drop in estrogen, a hormone that helps protect their bones. — Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 25 Sep. 2026

Estrogen receptors in the areas of the brain involved in memory, attention and mood are often hit hardest during perimenopause and menopause. — Cheryl Fenton, Flow Space, 23 Sep. 2026

This has proved true for women experiencing perimenopause or menopause, with one in 10 women taking an extended leave of absence or leaving their positions entirely. — Sam Gillette, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2026

But even in the darkest of moments, Housewives are Housewives, and Angie brings a sprinkle of levity by suggesting that Lisa is in perimenopause. — Tom Smyth, Vulture, 17 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for perimenopause

• ahs
• baas
• cause
• clause
• claws
• coz
• daws
• draws
• flaws
• gauze
• gnaws
• haws

Medical Definition

perimenopause

noun

peri·​men·​o·​pause -ˈmen-ə-ˌpȯz, -ˈmēn- 

: the period around the onset of menopause that is often marked by various physical signs (as hot flashes and menstrual irregularity)