adj Uncommon

fetal

FEETL

Fetal (adj) means relating to a fetus, the developing stage of a mammal before birth. Example: “The scan showed a strong fetal heartbeat.”

adj

Relating to a fetus, the developing stage of a mammal before birth.

"The scan showed a strong fetal heartbeat."

"Doctors monitor fetal growth throughout pregnancy."

Describing a curled-up posture resembling how a fetus rests in the womb.

"He curled into the fetal position after hearing the bad news."

How to use fetal

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishRelating to an unborn baby, or curled up like one.

Common pairings

fetal position fetal development fetal heartbeat

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The scan showed a strong _____ heartbeat.

Etymology

From fetus plus the adjective ending -al.

Synonyms

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foetal

Rhymes for fetal

metal petal Sheetal skeletal parietal societal

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Frequently asked questions

What does “fetal” mean?

The word “fetal” means relating to a fetus, the developing stage of a mammal before birth. In plain terms, relating to an unborn baby, or curled up like one.

How do you pronounce “fetal”?

“Fetal” is pronounced FEETL (/ˈfitl̩/ in IPA).

How do you use “fetal” in a sentence?

Here is “fetal” used in a sentence: “The scan showed a strong fetal heartbeat.”

What part of speech is “fetal”?

“Fetal” is an adjective.

Is “fetal” a common word?

“Fetal” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “fetal” have?

“Fetal” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to a fetus, the developing stage of a mammal before birth.