preterm

adjective

pre·​term (ˌ)prē-ˈtərm How to pronounce preterm (audio)
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.
When her son Nico was born at 32 weeks in 2020, Herrera-Moreno was already on disability leave, having entered preterm labor weeks earlier. ABC News, 17 May 2026 Although McElroy was going into preterm labor, according to the lawsuit, the on-call nurse didn’t send her to the hospital. Abigail Brooks, NBC news, 13 May 2026 Exposure can raise the risk of conditions like certain cancers, stroke, asthma, preterm births, dementia, depression and anxiety. Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 22 Apr. 2026 However, preterm formulas are a vital necessity. Alexander Crider, Chicago Tribune, 17 Apr. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Preterm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preterm. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

Medical Definition

preterm

adjective
pre·​term -ˈtərm How to pronounce preterm (audio)
: of, relating to, being, or born by premature birth
preterm infants
a preterm delivery
preterm labor
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