Fetal

/ˈfiːtl/

adjectivemediumCommonGeneral

Definitions

1

Relating to or denoting a fetus; in the state of development between an embryo and a baby.

/ˈfiːtl/

adjectiveneutralmedium
General

Relating to a fetus

Ultrasound scans are used to monitor fetal development.

💡 Simply: Imagine a tiny baby growing inside its mommy's tummy. The word 'fetal' is all about that tiny baby when it's still growing!

👶 For kids: About a baby that is growing inside its mommy's tummy.

More Examples

2

The doctor explained the potential risks to fetal health.

3

Genetic testing can identify potential issues during the fetal stage.

How It's Used

Medical

"Fetal development is a crucial period in human life."

Biology

"The fetal heartbeat can often be detected in early pregnancy."

From Late Latin *fētālis*, from *fētus* ('foetus'), referring to the developing young in the womb.

The word 'fetal' has been used in medical and biological contexts since the 17th century, evolving from Latin origins.

Memory tip

Think of the developing baby inside the mother's womb.

Word Origin

Root: fētus

fetelfietalfeetle

Usage

20%Spoken
80%Written