preterm
adjective
pre·term
(ˌ)prē-ˈtərm 
ˈprē-ˌtərm
: of, relating to, being, or brought forth by premature birth
a preterm infant
preterm labor
Examples of preterm in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Congenital syphilis can cause a range of adverse outcomes including fetal or neonatal death, preterm birth, low birthweight, and brain and nerve disorders.
—
Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 27 Jan. 2026
Ozone and particle pollution can cause premature death and other health effects, including asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes, preterm birth and impaired cognitive function, according to the American Lung Association.
—Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 17 Jan. 2026
Closing education and access gaps can reduce risks, especially for communities facing high rates of preterm birth and poor outcomes.
—Hannah Nwoko, Parents, 4 Jan. 2026
Using the March of Dimes grading criteria for preterm birth rate, California had a B- and Orange County a B in 2023.
—Teri Sforza, Oc Register, 4 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for preterm
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Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 27 Jan. 2026
Ozone and particle pollution can cause premature death and other health effects, including asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes, preterm birth and impaired cognitive function, according to the American Lung Association.
—Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 17 Jan. 2026
Closing education and access gaps can reduce risks, especially for communities facing high rates of preterm birth and poor outcomes.
—Hannah Nwoko, Parents, 4 Jan. 2026
Using the March of Dimes grading criteria for preterm birth rate, California had a B- and Orange County a B in 2023.
—Teri Sforza, Oc Register, 4 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for preterm
Cite this Entry
“Preterm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preterm. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
preterm
adjective
pre·term
-ˈtərm
: of, relating to, being, or born by premature birth
preterm infants
a preterm delivery
preterm labor
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