conceptus

American  

[kuhn-sep-tuhs] / kənˈsɛp təs /

noun

plural

conceptuses

1. the embryo and associated membranes of humans and other highly developed animals.

---

Etymology

Origin of conceptus

1935–40; < New Latin; Latin: the action of conceiving, hence, something that is conceived, fetus, embryo, equivalent to concep- (variant stem of concipere to conceive; concept ) + -tus suffix of v. action

Example Sentences

If a conceptus has only a single chromosome—a Y—it probably fails to implant in the uterus and never develops.

From Scientific American

Normally, when a sperm fertilizes an egg, the resulting human conceptus has 23 pairs of chromosomes.

From Scientific American

An important function of progesterone, Fessler said, is that it dials down an early-warning part of the immune system, inflammation, which might prevent the embryo, or conceptus, from implanting itself in the placenta.

From Seattle Times

An important function of progesterone, Dr. Fessler said, is that it dials down an early-warning part of the immune system, inflammation, which might prevent the embryo, or conceptus, from implanting itself in the placenta.

From New York Times

Time of implantation of the conceptus and loss of pregnancy.

From Scientific American