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

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Compare meaning

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

• preeclampsia vs. eclampsia
• toxemia vs. preeclampsia

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

preeclampsia

After Walker’s death, a medical examiner ruled that she died of hypertensive cardiovascular disease with preeclampsia, the latter of which is a dangerous pregnancy-related high blood pressure condition that doctors had identified in Walker.

From Salon ● Sep. 17, 2026

A woman who freezes her eggs at 30 and uses them at 40 still experiences pregnancy at 40, with the higher risks of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and cesarean delivery that accompany advanced maternal age.

From Slate ● Aug. 29, 2026

Miranda was 35 weeks, 5 days pregnant when she began having symptoms of preeclampsia.

From Slate ● Apr. 24, 2025

Researchers have also linked the toxic chemicals in smoke with maternal health complications including hypertension and preeclampsia.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 8, 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

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