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

If it is while you are pregnant, this is antenatal or prenatal anxiety.

From BBC • Sep. 30, 2024

Soft moonlight! life's pure maidenhood, whose dreams Are gleams of antenatal blessedness, Witness for Earth's equality, and bid The sister orbs of heaven cry "Hail!" to her.

From Eidolon, or The Course of a Soul And Other Poems by Cassels, Walter Richard