antenatal

American  

[an-tee-neyt-l] / ˌæn tiˈneɪt l /

adjective

1. prenatal.

   an antenatal clinic.

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antenatal British  

/ ˌæntɪˈneɪtəl /

adjective

1. occurring or present before birth; during pregnancy

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noun

1. Also called: prenatal.  informal an examination during pregnancy

Other Word Forms

• antenatally adverb

Etymology

Origin of antenatal

First recorded in 1810–20; ante- + natal

Compare meaning

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

• antenatal vs. prenatal

Example Sentences

Support 2gether offers support and education to mothers who are living with antenatal and postnatal depression and anxiety.

From BBC • Jul. 31, 2025

Given the recent steady decline in birth rate in Sweden, the researchers propose monitoring in antenatal care to address the problem.

From Science Daily • Nov. 25, 2024

"Proper support and monitoring by antenatal care staff is therefore essential for women who have suffered serious health problems during pregnancy or delivery."

From Science Daily • Nov. 25, 2024

Gareth Thomas, a sociologist at Cardiff University University, has done extensive research with healthcare professionals, and written a book about the language around disability in pregnancy and antenatal care.

From BBC • Oct. 24, 2024

It was as if her folding arms had been his antenatal hiding-place; as if she had brought him forth with anguish a second time.

From The Creators A Comedy by Sinclair, May