How Do You Spell FOETUS?

Pronunciation: [fˈiːtəs] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "foetus" is a common topic of debate. In British English, the word is typically spelled with the "oe" combination, while in American English, the word is spelled "fetus." The correct pronunciation of the word is "FEE-tus," with the stress on the first syllable. The "oe" combination is pronounced as a long "e" sound, resulting in the distinct pronunciation of "FEE-uh-tus." Regardless of the spelling variations, the meaning of the word remains the same: the term refers to a developing human or animal in the womb.

FOETUS Meaning and Definition

1. A foetus, also spelled as fetus, refers to the stage of development of a mammalian embryo after the embryonic period and before birth. This term is specifically used to describe the developing organism in the uterus of a pregnant woman. It is the prenatal stage where the foetus undergoes various crucial physiological and anatomical changes until it is ready to be born. Typically, the foetal period lasts from the ninth week of gestation until birth.

   During this stage, the foetus develops recognizable human characteristics and features. Organs continue to mature, and systems such as the circulatory, respiratory, and nervous systems become more refined. The foetus obtains nutrients and oxygen from the placenta through the umbilical cord, which serves as its lifeline in the uterus. Additionally, the foetus grows in size and weight as it accumulates body fat and develops muscle mass.

   Knowledge about the foetal development is of great significance in the field of obstetrics and prenatal care, as it helps monitor the growth and health of the developing baby. Medical professionals employ various diagnostic tools, including ultrasound imaging, to assess foetal well-being and detect any potential complications that may arise. Moreover, understanding the foetal stage is essential for ensuring a safe and healthy pregnancy, as proper prenatal care can help promote optimal growth and development of the foetus.

2. An incorrect spelling of fetus.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. The young of animals in the womb or in the egg after assuming a perfect form.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for FOETUS

• doetus
• coetus
• voetus
• goetus
• toetus
• roetus
• fietus
• fketus
• fpetus
• f0etus
• f9etus
• fowtus
• fostus
• fodtus
• fortus
• fo4tus
• fo3tus
• foerus
• foefus

Etymology of FOETUS

The word "foetus" derives from the Latin term "fetus", which means "offspring" or "bearing young". This Latin term itself comes from the verb "fetare", meaning "to produce young" or "to give birth". The word "foetus" was originally used to refer to the unborn or developing offspring of mammals, including humans. It later became more specifically associated with human gestation.

Similar spelling words for FOETUS

• feuds,
• Fodge,
• foutz,
• fouts,
• fits,
• fetus,
• foutch,
• frets,
• fots.

Plural form of FOETUS is FOETUSES