preeclampsia

noun

pre·​eclamp·​sia ˌprē-i-ˈklam(p)-sē-ə How to pronounce preeclampsia (audio)
: a serious condition developing in late pregnancy that is characterized by a sudden rise in blood pressure, excessive weight gain, generalized edema, proteinuria, severe headache, and visual disturbances and that may result in eclampsia if untreated
preeclamptic adjective

Examples of preeclampsia 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.
Erin believes doctors' neglect in screening for preeclampsia happens far too often. Gillian Telling, People.com, 9 May 2025 The list, which is not exhaustive, includes preeclampsia, renal failure, liver failure, cardiac disease, pulmonary hypertension and neurological conditions. Cassandra Jaramillo, ProPublica, 1 May 2025 Medicaid’s prenatal care can help cover not only screenings like Ewell needed each week, but can also help track pregnant people’s cardiovascular health, risks for preeclampsia, high blood pressure and glucose levels — all chronic stressors that can cause preterm births. Cheyanne M. Daniels, The Hill, 20 Apr. 2025 The twins were born at just 27 weeks and 4 days gestation when their mother experienced atypical preeclampsia – Staggs’ liver and brain were dangerously swollen. Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 15 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for preeclampsia

Word History

Etymology

New Latin

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of preeclampsia was in 1923

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Preeclampsia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preeclampsia. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

preeclampsia

noun
pre·​eclamp·​sia ˌprē-i-ˈklam(p)-sē-ə How to pronounce preeclampsia (audio)
: a serious condition developing in late pregnancy that is characterized by a sudden rise in blood pressure, excessive weight gain, generalized edema, proteinuria, severe headache, and visual disturbances and that may result in eclampsia if untreated compare eclampsia sense a, toxemia of pregnancy

More from Merriam-Webster on preeclampsia

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