Pronunciation: [pˈɑːt͡ʃəɹˌi͡ənt] (IPA) 
The word "parturient" is spelled pɑːrtʃʊəriənt. It comes from the Latin word parturire, meaning "to be in labor," and is used to describe an animal, typically a cow or a mare, that is about to give birth. The spelling of the word can be tricky, with several vowels and consonants next to each other. Phonetic transcription helps to break down the word into its individual sounds, making it easier to understand and pronounce.
Parturient is an adjective that describes a female animal or human who is about to or is in the process of giving birth. The term primarily refers to the period of pregnancy immediately preceding the birth or labor itself. It is derived from the Latin word "parturire," meaning "to be in labor."
In the context of medicine, parturient is often used to describe a woman who is experiencing contractions and has entered the active phase of labor. It typically represents the condition or state of the mother during this critical stage, highlighting her imminent change from a pregnant state to delivering offspring.
The term can also be used to describe animals, particularly mammals, who have reached the end of their gestational period and are preparing to give birth. In this sense, it highlights the physiological processes occurring within the mother as she readies herself for delivery and the arrival of her young.
In a more general sense, parturient can be applied metaphorically to non-living subjects or abstract concepts. It can connote a state of anticipation, preparation, or impending change, similar to that experienced by a pregnant female. In this broader context, the term implies a sense of being on the brink of something significant, such as a transformation, growth, or the onset of a new phase.
Relating to or being in the process of parturition or childbirth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Bringing forth or about to bring forth young.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "parturient" comes from the Latin word "parturire", which means "to be in labor" or "to give birth". It is derived from the Latin word "partus", which means "a birth" or "a bearing". The term "parturient" is primarily used in the medical context to describe a woman who is in the process of giving birth or experiencing labor.
