Neonatal
ˌniːoʊˈneɪtəl
Definitions
Relating to or affecting newborn babies during the first month of life after birth.
ˌniːoʊˈneɪtəl
Relating to newborn children, especially the first month of life.
Neonatal care focuses on the health and well-being of newborns.
💡 Simply: It's like a special word for talking about babies right after they're born. Imagine a doctor checking on a baby just a few days old. That's neonatal!
👶 For kids: About babies who are very, very new!
More Examples
The hospital's neonatal ward is equipped to handle complex medical issues.
Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in newborns.
How It's Used
"The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) provides specialized care for premature infants."
"Neonatal screening can detect certain health conditions in newborns."
From Neo- (new) and -natal (relating to birth), ultimately from Latin natus (born). It refers to the period immediately after birth.
The word 'neonatal' has been used in medical literature since the early 20th century, reflecting advancements in the care of newborns.
Memory tip
Think of 'neo' as new, and 'natal' as birth – new birth, or the newborn period.