fetal
UK: ˈfiːtl | US: ˈfiːtl
adj. relating to a fetus
adj. characteristic of or resembling a fetus
The word fetal traces back to Latin fetus, which broadly referred to offspring or the act of bearing young. Over time, fetus narrowed in meaning to specifically denote an unborn mammal in later stages of development. The suffix -al was added in English to form the adjective, first appearing in scientific contexts in the 19th century. The term retains its biological precision, linking directly to developmental stages before birth.
The ultrasound showed normal fetal development.
Fetal movements can often be felt by the mother in the second trimester.
Researchers studied the effects of nutrition on fetal health.
The fetal position is a common sleeping posture.
Fetal alcohol syndrome is a serious condition caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol.