fetal

adjective

fe·​tal ˈfē-tᵊl How to pronounce fetal (audio)
: of, relating to, or being a fetus

Examples of fetal 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.
However, pregnant women with autoimmune diseases still face a far higher likelihood of having serious complications, including preterm birth or even fetal loss. Kristen Demoruelle, The Conversation, 27 Aug. 2025 His study's findings suggest further research is needed to understand how acetaminophen may impact maternal-fetal health outcomes, Prada said. Adrianna Rodriguez, USA Today, 22 Aug. 2025 Pregnant rats were injected with MAM to disrupt fetal brain development, producing offspring with schizophrenia-like brain changes and behaviors. New Atlas, 11 Aug. 2025 Prenatal Vitamins Prenatal vitamins are formulated to support fetal development and maternal health. Patricia Weiser, Verywell Health, 7 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fetal

Word History

First Known Use

1736, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fetal was in 1736

Cite this Entry

“Fetal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fetal. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

fetal

adjective
fe·​tal ˈfēt-ᵊl How to pronounce fetal (audio)
: of, relating to, or being a fetus

Medical Definition

fetal

adjective
fe·​tal
variants or chiefly British foetal
: of, relating to, or being a fetus

More from Merriam-Webster on fetal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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