labor pains

American

[ley-ber peynz] / ˈleɪ bər ˌpeɪnz /

plural noun

pain experienced as a result of uterine contractions during childbirth.
difficulties, problems, or setbacks encountered during the initial phase of a business or project.

Etymology

Origin of labor pains

First recorded in 1745–55

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That care might include snacks, massages or warm compresses but also more substantive assistance, like suggesting movements to ease labor pains or help with breastfeeding.

From New York Times • Apr. 25, 2024

At first, she brushed it off as Braxton Hicks, false labor pains not uncommon in the late stages of pregnancy.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2023

As first reported by The State, the woman sought medical care associated with labor pains in October 2021, according to the police report, which was obtained and posted online by Jezebel.

From Salon • Mar. 7, 2023

But the labor pains of the restaurant business go beyond seasonal layoffs or omicron.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 20, 2022

Emma experienced premature labor pains the day Charles wrote the memorial, but then the pains stopped.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023