Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Pregnant: Being in a state of pregnancy; carrying a developing fetus within the body.

Usage

• The term "with child" is a formal, literary, or somewhat archaic adjective phrase used to describe a woman who is pregnant. It is typically used in the predicate position (after a linking verb like "be") and is considered more euphemistic and gentle than the direct term "pregnant."

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The queen was with child and the kingdom rejoiced.
  • In the painting, the Virgin Mary is depicted as being with child.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is often found in historical texts, religious contexts, or classic literature. It can convey a sense of dignity, formality, or antiquity.
• It is typically not used in casual, modern conversation where "pregnant" is standard.

Variants and Related Words

• Pregnant (adj): The standard, direct term for being with child.
• Expecting (adj): A common, slightly more informal synonym for pregnant.
• In the family way (adj. phrase): An old-fashioned, euphemistic phrase similar to "with child."

Synonyms

• Pregnant
• Expecting
• Gravid (a formal, often biological term)

Related Idioms

• Great with child: An intensified, more descriptive variant of "with child," specifically indicating the later, more advanced stages of pregnancy.
  • She was great with child and moved slowly.

Adjective

1. in an advanced stage of pregnancy
   • was big with child
   • was great with child