preeclampsia

American  

[pree-i-klamp-see-uh] / ˌpri ɪˈklæmp si ə /

Or pre-eclampsia

noun

1. Pathology. a form of toxemia of pregnancy, characterized by hypertension, fluid retention, and albuminuria, sometimes progressing to eclampsia.

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Etymology

Origin of preeclampsia

First recorded in 1920–25; pre- + eclampsia

Compare meaning

How does preeclampsia compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• preeclampsia vs. eclampsia
• toxemia vs. preeclampsia

Example Sentences

She also said that Owen experienced preeclampsia during her most recent pregnancy, causing her to be hospitalized several times with high blood pressure that continued even after she had given birth.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 31, 2025

When McCoy developed symptoms of preeclampsia last January, she felt she had the best chance of getting the care she needed at a larger hospital in Boise, Idaho, two hours away.

From Salon • Jan. 9, 2025

Analysis of cheek swabs taken from pregnant women revealed a potential epigenetic biomarker for preeclampsia, a potentially life-threatening condition that often leads to preterm births.

From Science Daily • Dec. 5, 2024

Smith was at high risk for developing preeclampsia, as she had during her first pregnancy.

From Slate • Nov. 14, 2024

"It's about screening for important conditions such as preeclampsia which can affect both mums and babies from an early stage in pregnancy," she added.

From BBC • Oct. 30, 2024