perimenopause

noun

peri·​men·​o·​pause ˌper-ē-ˈme-nə-ˌpȯz How to pronounce perimenopause (audio)
-ˈmē-
: the period around the onset of menopause that is often marked by various physical signs (such as hot flashes and menstrual irregularity)
perimenopausal
ˌper-ē-ˌme-nə-ˈpȯ-zəl How to pronounce perimenopause (audio)
-ˌmē-
adjective

Examples of perimenopause 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.
Cognitive decline can subtly begin in the late 20s, not just old age, with perimenopause around 35 also impacting brain health. — Eman Bare, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026 In forums on Reddit, women share tales of having perimenopause and menopause symptoms misdiagnosed or dismissed as mental health disorders, early-onset dementia, or autoimmune issues, resulting in months or years of unnecessary testing. — Yulin Hswen, STAT, 27 Aug. 2026 If those aren’t to blame, perimenopause just might be the culprit — and lifestyle changes may help. — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 26 Aug. 2026 For nearly 20 years, nurse practitioner Briston McClendon has treated women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. — Erin Jones, CBS News, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for perimenopause

Word History

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of perimenopause was in 1962

Rhymes for perimenopause

See All Rhymes for perimenopause

Browse Nearby Words

perimedullary zone
perimenopause
perimeter
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Cite this Entry

“Perimenopause.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perimenopause. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

perimenopause

noun
peri·​men·​o·​pause -ˈmen-ə-ˌpȯz, -ˈmēn- How to pronounce perimenopause (audio)
: the period around the onset of menopause that is often marked by various physical signs (as hot flashes and menstrual irregularity)
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