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.

Research highlights how occupational heat exposure can double adverse birth outcomes, with heat acting as a fetal toxin, while fine particulate matter contributes to preterm births and low birth weight. — Catarina Rolfsdotter-Jansson, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026 Abbott Laboratories has agreed to pay $670 million to resolve some of the litigation surrounding its preterm infant formula. — Jeff Marks, CNBC, 21 Aug. 2026 Some preterm babies who drink only breast milk also develop the disease. — Lisa Schencker, Chicago Tribune, 20 Aug. 2026 Pregnant women face higher risks of miscarriage and preterm birth. — Kathy Baughman McLeod, Time, 4 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 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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