preeclampsia

American  

[pree-i-klamp-see-uh] / ˌpri ɪˈklæmp si ə /

Or pre-eclampsia

noun

1. Pathology. a form of toxemia of pregnancy, characterized by hypertension, fluid retention, and albuminuria, sometimes progressing to eclampsia.

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Etymology

Origin of preeclampsia

First recorded in 1920–25; pre- + eclampsia

Compare meaning

How does preeclampsia compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• preeclampsia vs. eclampsia
• toxemia vs. preeclampsia

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

preeclampsia

Doctors are encouraged to consider family history of atherosclerosis, underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, and life events like early menopause or pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia or gestational diabetes, when evaluating risk and planning treatment.

From Science Daily ● Mar. 29, 2026

She also said that Owen experienced preeclampsia during her most recent pregnancy, causing her to be hospitalized several times with high blood pressure that continued even after she had given birth.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 31, 2025

Miranda was 35 weeks, 5 days pregnant when she began having symptoms of preeclampsia.

From Slate ● Apr. 24, 2025

The therapist detailed that she survived preeclampsia during her son's birth.

From Salon ● Dec. 20, 2024

Smith was at high risk for developing preeclampsia, as she had during her first pregnancy.

From Slate ● Nov. 14, 2024