pregnancy
UK: ˈpreɡnənsi | US: ˈpreɡnənsi
n. the condition or period of being pregnant
n. the state of containing developing young within the body
n. (figuratively) a time of rich potential or creativity
The word "pregnancy" traces back to the Latin praegnans, meaning "with child," derived from prae- (before) + gnasci (to be born, related to genus "birth"). Over time, the spelling evolved into Middle English pregnaunt, later standardized as "pregnant." The noun form "pregnancy" emerged by adding the suffix -ancy, denoting a state or condition. The morpheme pregn- preserves the core idea of carrying offspring, while -ancy abstracts it into a measurable condition.
Her pregnancy lasted nine months, culminating in a healthy delivery.
The doctor confirmed the pregnancy through a blood test.
Some cultures celebrate pregnancy with special rituals.
The book explores the emotional journey of pregnancy.
(Figurative) The project is in its pregnancy phase, full of unrealized ideas.