ectopic

American  

[ek-top-ik] / ɛkˈtɒp ɪk /

adjective

Pathology.

1. occurring in an abnormal position or place; displaced.

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ectopic Scientific  

/ ĕk-tŏp′ĭk /

1. Out of place, as of an organ not in its proper position, or of a pregnancy occurring elsewhere than in the cavity of the uterus.

2. Of or relating to a heartbeat that has its origin elsewhere than in the sinoatrial node.

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Etymology

Origin of ectopic

First recorded in 1870–75; ectop(ia) + -ic

Example Sentences

In an ectopic pregnancy, the placenta can’t safely grow, increasing the chances of maternal bleeding and fetal death, according to the release.

From Los Angeles Times

According to the NHS, one in 90 pregnancies in the UK are ectopic, and occur when a fertilised egg implants itself outside of the womb.

From BBC

In another, a woman in pain went to the emergency room and was found to have an ectopic pregnancy — a pregnancy growing outside of her uterus, endangering her life and future fertility.

From Salon

The swelling that occurred in her lower abdomen, she says, was likely an ectopic pregnancy, in which a fertilized egg implants and grows outside of the uterus.

From Salon

She has two young boys but also had a miscarriage and an ectopic pregnancy, and has always wondered if the physical toll of elite sport had damaged her fertility.

From BBC