teratogenic

adjective

ter·​a·​to·​gen·​ic ˌter-ə-tə-ˈje-nik How to pronounce teratogenic (audio)
: of, relating to, or causing developmental malformations
teratogenic substances
teratogenic effects
teratogenicity noun

Examples of teratogenic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This teratogenic classification means that, before starting isotretinoin, a patient must undergo a rigorous screening process in order to access the drug. Deanna Pai, Allure, 3 Feb. 2023 It's categorized as a teratogenic drug, which describes any agent that causes abnormality after a fetus is exposed to it. Deanna Pai, Allure, 3 Feb. 2023 Vitamin A, the active ingredient in retinol products, needs to be avoided as high levels can be teratogenic for the baby. Angela Lei, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'teratogenic.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French tératogénique, from térato- terato- + -génique -genic

First Known Use

1879, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of teratogenic was in 1879

Dictionary Entries Near teratogenic

Cite this Entry

“Teratogenic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/teratogenic. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

Medical Definition

teratogenic

adjective
ter·​a·​to·​gen·​ic -ˈjen-ik How to pronounce teratogenic (audio)
: of, relating to, or causing developmental malformations
teratogenic substances
teratogenic effects
teratogenicity noun
plural teratogenicities
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