embryo transfer

noun

1
: the final procedure of the in vitro fertilization process that involves transfer of one or more embryos into the uterine cavity typically by using a catheter inserted through the uterine cervix
2
: a procedure used in animal breeding in which an embryo from a superovulated female is removed and reimplanted in the uterus of another female

called also embryo transplant

Examples of embryo transfer 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.
Elliott was relieved when Guojun showed up for the embryo transfer. — Ava Kofman, New Yorker, 9 Feb. 2026 Their embryo transfer finally took place in June 2020, and two weeks later, the couple learned Jenna was pregnant. — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 13 June 2026 Demers, 36, shared a heartwarming compilation of the clips on TikTok after their first embryo transfer. — Maria Morava, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Oct. 2025 Mariana Klaveno, 46, had transferred more than $66,000 to the agency’s in-house escrow for an embryo transfer, which was planned for next month. — Alexandra Chaidez, NBC news, 18 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for embryo transfer

Word History

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of embryo transfer was in 1966

Rhymes for embryo transfer

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Browse Nearby Words

embryotic
embryo transfer
embryous
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Cite this Entry

“Embryo transfer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embryo%20transfer. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

embryo transfer

noun
1
: the final procedure of the in vitro fertilization process that involves transfer of one or more embryos into the uterine cavity typically by using a catheter inserted through the uterine cervix
2
: a procedure used in animal breeding in which an embryo from a superovulated female is removed and reimplanted in the uterus of another female

called also embryo transplant

More from Merriam-Webster on embryo transfer

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about embryo transfer

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