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

But our study highlights that following this advice might be harder for some women during pregnancy. —Alex Crisp, The Conversation, 17 Feb. 2026

In 2020, 1 in 52 women in Sierra Leone died during pregnancy or childbirth, according to Partners In Health. —Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 17 Feb. 2026

In 2020, 1 in 52 women died during pregnancy or childbirth, according to Partners In Health. —Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 17 Feb. 2026

The Mediterranean-style diet is linked with higher pregnancy rates and studies on sperm health show that nutrition, exercise, sleep, and avoiding toxins improve sperm count, motility, and DNA integrity. —Rachel Hosie, SELF, 16 Feb. 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