superfetation
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of superfetation
1595–1605; < Latin superfētāt ( us ) (past participle of superfētāre to conceive again while still pregnant, equivalent to super- super- + fētā ( re ) to breed ( see fetus) + -tus past participle suffix) + -ion
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.
A rare condition known as superfetation makes it possible to conceive for a second time when pregnant.
From BBC ● Nov. 15, 2016
Pregnancy normally stops the monthly cycle of ovulation but superfetation allows it to continue.
From BBC ● Nov. 15, 2016
The badger, American mink, panther, buffalo and swamp wallaby are a few examples of mammals in which superfetation is well documented.
From Scientific American ● Apr. 27, 2011
The phenomenon of superfetation in animals has long been speculated as far back as fourth century B.C by Aristotle.
From Scientific American ● Apr. 27, 2011
For that which is denied in other generations is done in this of yours: for here is superfetation, childe upon childe, and that which is more strange twins at a latter conception.
From Letters to Severall Persons of Honour by Donne, John
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
