preterm

American  

[pree-turm] / priˈtɜrm /

adjective

1. occurring earlier in pregnancy than expected; premature.

   preterm labor.

---

noun

1. a baby born prematurely, especially one born before the 37th week of pregnancy and weighing less than 5½ pounds (2.5 kilograms).

preterm British  

/ ˌpriːˈtɜːm /

adjective

1. (of a baby) born prematurely

---

adverb

1. prematurely

Etymology

Origin of preterm

First recorded in 1925–30; pre- + term

Example Sentences

For those at risk of preterm labor, a PIEZO1 blocker, if developed, could work alongside current medications that relax uterine muscle by limiting calcium entry into cells.

From Science Daily

This pollutant has been associated with asthma, obstructive pulmonary disease, preterm birth, diabetes, and lung cancer.

From Science Daily

"Understanding brain activity patterns in both term and preterm infants can help us identify those most vulnerable to injury at an early stage."

From BBC

People with a double uterus are at increased risk of miscarriage and preterm birth but can have healthy pregnancies.

From BBC

But evidence does show that physical and psychological strain — the kind people can suffer while detained — threatens the health of a pregnancy and can mean greater risk of preterm birth.

From Salon