pregnancy

noun

preg·​nan·​cy ˈpreg-nən(t)-sē 

plural pregnancies

1

: the quality of being pregnant (as in meaning)

2

: the condition of being pregnant : gestation

3

: an instance of being pregnant

Synonyms of pregnancy

• gestation

Examples of pregnancy in a Sentence

an elephant's pregnancy can last almost a year

Recent Examples on the Web

One study found that up to 75% of pregnancies among women in their 40s are unplanned. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 16 July 2026

Chronic exposure increases the risk of pregnancy complications and the risks of possible developmental disorders in children. — Ava Berger, NPR, 16 July 2026

The insider went on to explain that Hathaway didn’t want her pregnancy to overshadow the release of the Devil Wears Prada sequel. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 16 July 2026

Mike Snider There are plenty of health concerns during pregnancy. — Sara Moniuszko, USA Today, 16 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pregnancy

• ectopic pregnancy
• false pregnancy
• phantom pregnancy
• pregnancy test
• tubal pregnancy

Kids Definition

pregnancy

noun

preg·​nan·​cy ˈpreg-nən(t)-sē 

plural pregnancies

: the condition of being pregnant : gestation

Medical Definition

pregnancy

noun

preg·​nan·​cy ˈpreg-nən-sē 

plural pregnancies

1

: the condition of being pregnant

2

: an instance of being pregnant