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

From her earliest days of pregnancy with Riley to her postpartum experiences with Barry, the musician has been candid about ups, downs and everything in between. —Zoey Lyttle, PEOPLE, 14 June 2026

Amid her second pregnancy with Prince Harry, Diana attended the festivities with a young William, wearing a quintessential ’80s ensemble. —Elle Meier, InStyle, 13 June 2026

There are some positive aspects to Gen Zers’ approach to risky behaviors, such as lower rates of teen pregnancy and a focus on protecting their peace and work-life balance. —Avni Trivedi, CNN Money, 13 June 2026

She was refused a return flight by an airline, because of the advanced stage of her pregnancy. —Filip Bondy, New York Daily News, 13 June 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