in vitro fertilization

American  

noun

1. a specialized technique by which an ovum, especially a human one, is fertilized by sperm outside the body, with the resulting embryo later implanted in the uterus for gestation.

---

in vitro fertilization British  

noun

1.  IVF.  a technique enabling some women who are unable to conceive to bear children. Egg cells removed from a woman's ovary are fertilized by sperm in vitro; some of the resulting fertilized egg cells are incubated until the blastocyst stage, which are then implanted into her uterus

---

in vitro fertilization Scientific  

1. Fertilization of an egg outside the body of a female by the addition of sperm, as a means of producing a zygote.

---

Etymology

Origin of in vitro fertilization

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Their children were conceived through in vitro fertilization.

From Barron's • May 18, 2026

Right now, they are pursuing in vitro fertilization, which requires many doctor’s appointments.

From MarketWatch • May 13, 2026

For example, in vitro fertilization can cost between $25,000 to $30,000 for one cycle without medication.

From Salon • Apr. 18, 2026

Fertility treatments: Large employer health plans will be required to cover infertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization, for everyone, regardless of marital status, gender identity or sexual orientation.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2026

When that didn’t work, he recommended we move to in vitro fertilization.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama