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preterm

adjective

pre·​term (ˌ)prē-ˈtərm How to pronounce preterm (audio)
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
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.
Last year’s rate is still worse than the city’s preterm birth rate from five years ago, which was 11%. Ciara McCarthy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Nov. 2025 But some states have been successful in improving preterm birth rates. Jacqueline Howard, CNN Money, 17 Nov. 2025 Key Takeaways Tocolytics are short-term treatments used to allow time for interventions that can improve the outcomes of preterm labor and delivery for both mother and child. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 13 Nov. 2025 In a candid statement, the British princess shared how the work of Borne has become deeply personal following Athena's preterm birth. Janine Henni, PEOPLE, 12 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for preterm

Word History

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of preterm was in 1928

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Preterm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preterm. Accessed 28 Nov. 2025.

Medical Definition

preterm

adjective
pre·​term -ˈtərm How to pronounce preterm (audio)
: of, relating to, being, or born by premature birth
preterm infants
a preterm delivery
preterm labor
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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