Meaning & Definition of word "Fetus"

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.