preterm

American  

[pree-turm] / priˈtɜrm /

adjective

1. occurring earlier in pregnancy than expected; premature.

   preterm labor.

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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

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adverb

1. prematurely

Etymology

Origin of preterm

First recorded in 1925–30; pre- + term

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

preterm

At a routine 20-week checkup, however, she learned that she was suffering from preterm premature rupture of membranes and that her baby would not survive.

From Slate ● May 4, 2026

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

From Science Daily ● Dec. 3, 2025

"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 ● Nov. 6, 2025

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 ● Oct. 22, 2025

“Data also support the benefit of vaccination in reducing pregnancy complications, such as severe maternal morbidity, preterm birth, and stillbirth.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 26, 2025

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