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

1. an infant that is born prior to 37 weeks of gestation