Pronunciation: [nˈe͡ɪtə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "natal" refers to something related to birth or relating to one's place of birth. It is pronounced as /ˈneɪtəl/ with the stress on the first syllable. The first sound is a long "a" followed by a "t" sound and an unstressed schwa sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound followed by an unstressed "l" sound. The spelling of the word reflects its Latin origins where "nat-" refers to birth or being born.
Natal is an adjective that refers to something or someone relating to birth or the time of birth. It is derived from the Latin word "natalis," which means "pertaining to birth." The term primarily describes anything associated with the birth of a person or the birth process itself.
When used in the context of a person, natal usually signifies the place or country in which they were born. For example, a person's natal city or natal country would refer to the location where they entered the world. In astrology, natal charts or horoscopes are constructed based on the individual's birth date, time, and location, providing insights into their personality traits and future predictions.
Furthermore, the term can also be applied to circumstances or events that occur at the time of birth. The phrase "natal day" is occasionally used in place of "birthday" to emphasize the significance of the day someone was born. Similarly, "natal care" refers to the medical attention and support provided to both the mother and newborn during the childbirth process.
In summary, natal denotes anything connected to birth, whether it pertains to a person's birthplace, their birth chart in astrology, or the care and events surrounding the time of their birth.
1. Relating to birth. 2. Relating to the buttocks or nates.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Of or relating to birth; native.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word natal originates from the Latin word natalis, which means of or pertaining to birth. It is derived from the Latin word natus, which means born. Natal ultimately comes from the Proto-Indo-European root *gen-, which carries the meaning of to give birth or to beget. This root has given rise to various other words related to birth, such as genetic, generate, and genesis.
