preterm

adjective

pre·term (ˌ)prē-ˈtərm

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.

Meanwhile, studies suggest untreated ureaplasma may be linked to pregnancy complications, including preterm birth and miscarriage, and research points to a potential connection with fertility problems in both men and women. — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 19 Oct. 2026 For women, studies suggest a link between untreated ureaplasma and pregnancy complications, including preterm birth and miscarriage. — Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Oct. 2026 The rest of the Vortex had been trying to track Spencer down for the last few episodes, after Olivia (Samantha Logan) went into preterm labor with their twins. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 28 Sep. 2026 March of Dimes also found first-year medical costs run roughly four times higher for preterm infants than for full-term ones. — Sydney Lake, Fortune, 15 Sep. 2026 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

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Style

“Preterm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preterm. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

preterm

adjective

pre·term -ˈtərm

: of, relating to, being, or born by premature birth

preterm infants

a preterm delivery

preterm labor

preterm

adjective

Examples of preterm in a Sentence

Word History

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Cite this Entry

Medical Definition

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