Meaning & Definition of word "Fetus"
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Fetus
/ˈfiːtəs/
noun:
- 1. An unborn offspring in the process of development, specifically after the end of the embryonic stage, typically from the eighth week after fertilization until birth.
- Example: The doctor explained that the fetus is developing rapidly in the mother's womb.
- 2. A human fetus is categorized as such from approximately the eighth week of gestation until birth.
- Example: Ultrasound images can provide a glimpse of the fetus's features during the second trimester.
- 3. In general biological terms, it refers to the developing young of other vertebrates that follow the embryonic stage.
- Example: The researcher studied the growth patterns of the fetus in various species of mammals.
- 4. The term is also applicable to the early forms of non-human vertebrates post-embryonic development.
- Example: The scientist documented the stages of the fish fetus's development in a controlled environment.
Etymology
From Latin 'fetus', meaning 'offspring, hatching, the product of the womb'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
fetal development:
The process of growth and maturation of the fetus inside the womb.
fetus in fetu:
A rare condition in which a malformed extra fetus develops within the body of its twin.
fetal heartbeat:
The sound of the heart of a fetus, often checked during pregnancy.
Related Words
embryo:
An early stage of development in multicellular organisms, prior to the fetal stage.
gestation:
The period of development of a fetus in the womb from conception to birth.
pregnancy:
The state of carrying a developing fetus within the female body.
Slang Meanings of fetus
Meaning: Bun in the oven
Example Sentence: She has a bun in the oven, she's expecting a baby soon.
Meaning: Little bean
Example Sentence: They are calling their fetus the little bean until the baby arrives.