PREMATURITY Meaning and
Definition
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Prematurity is a term used in both medical and non-medical contexts to describe the condition or state of something occurring or being developed earlier or before the usual or expected time. In the medical field, prematurity refers specifically to the condition of a baby being born before the completion of the full term of pregnancy, typically before 37 weeks of gestation.
A premature baby, also known as a preemie, is a newborn who enters the world earlier than expected, often resulting in a variety of physical and developmental challenges. Prematurity can lead to complications and health issues due to the baby's organs and systems not being fully developed yet. Premature babies may have difficulties with breathing, eating, maintaining body temperature, and fighting infections. As a result, they often require specialized medical care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) until they reach the milestones expected for their gestational age.
Outside the medical context, prematurity can also refer to the general notion of something occurring or happening earlier than anticipated or without sufficient preparation. It can apply to any situation, event, or decision that arises prematurely, interrupting a natural or expected progression. Prematurity can have a negative connotation, as it implies something being rushed, incomplete, or inadequate due to its premature nature. However, prematurity can also be seen as an opportunity for growth, learning, and adaptation, allowing for adjustments and improvements to be made in subsequent phases.
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The quality of being premature; ripeness before the natural or usual time.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PREMATURITY
- orematurity
- lrematurity
- -rematurity
- 0rematurity
- peematurity
- pdematurity
- pfematurity
- ptematurity
- p5ematurity
- p4ematurity
- prwmaturity
- prsmaturity
- prdmaturity
- prrmaturity
- pr4maturity
- pr3maturity
- prenaturity
- prekaturity
- prejaturity
- prematureity
- prematturity
- prematurnity
- prematority
Etymology of PREMATURITY
The word "prematurity" is derived from the Latin prefix "pre-" meaning "before" or "prior to", and the Latin noun "maturitas" meaning "ripeness" or "maturity". When combined, they form the word "prae-maturitas", which refers to something occurring or being done before the right or expected time. Over time, the term was adapted into English and eventually became "prematurity" which primarily refers to the state of being premature or occurring prematurely, particularly in relation to childbirth.
Similar spelling words for PREMATURITY
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