preemie
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A baby born before the 37th week of pregnancy; a premature infant.
Usage
The term "preemie" is an informal, affectionate, and commonly used word for a premature baby. It is frequently used in everyday conversation, in supportive communities (like parent groups), and in less formal medical contexts to refer to infants born early. * The neonatal unit is caring for several preemies. * As a preemie, she needed special care for her first few weeks. * Their preemie is gaining weight and getting stronger every day.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used attributively (like an adjective) before another noun.
- The hospital has a dedicated preemie ward.
- They bought preemie clothes because the newborn sizes were too large.
Variants and Related Words
- Premature baby / infant (noun): The standard and more formal term for a baby born before 37 weeks of gestation.
- Premature (adjective): Describing something that happens before the expected or usual time. When referring to a baby, it means "born before 37 weeks of gestation."
- She was born premature.
- Preterm (adjective): A clinical synonym for "premature" when referring to birth.
- The mother was at risk for preterm labor.
Synonyms
- Premature baby
- Premature infant
- Preterm infant
- Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) baby (context-specific)
Notes on Meaning
- "Preemie" vs. "Premature Baby": Both refer to the same medical condition. "Preemie" is the informal, shortened version, while "premature baby" is the standard formal term.
- The word carries connotations of small size, fragility, and the need for specialized medical care, but also of resilience and strength.
Noun
- an infant that is born prior to 37 weeks of gestation