in vitro fertilization

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

noun

1. 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 IVF

in vitro fertilization

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of in vitro fertilization¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

In-vitro fertilization could also come under threat, opponents say, as the process can result in discarded embryos.

From The Daily Beast

Mason said opponents use birth control and in-vitro fertilization as "scare tactics."

From The Daily Beast

Democrats say such amendments would “ban IUDs, the morning-after pill, in-vitro fertilization, and all abortions.”

From The Daily Beast

When attempting in-vitro fertilization with their own eggs, 85 percent of women in their forties fail to conceive.

From The Daily Beast