# fetal

/ˈfitəɫ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fetal
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. biological

adjective · CEFR B2 · Technical

relating to a baby that is still growing inside its mother.

For teachers: pertaining to or connected with a fetus during its development in the womb.

- The doctor monitored the fetal heartbeat during the routine checkup.
- Advanced imaging techniques allow specialists to monitor fetal development with extraordinary precision throughout the second trimester.

Usage: Usually placed before the noun.

### 2. body position

adjective · CEFR B2 · Informal

describing a way of lying down with your knees pulled up to your chest.

For teachers: denoting a physical posture characterized by a curled torso and limbs drawn toward the chest, resembling a fetus.

- He fell asleep in a fetal position on the sofa.
- After the exhausting marathon, she collapsed onto the grass in a fetal position to recover her breath.

Usage: Almost always used in the phrase 'fetal position'.

## Examples

- The doctor checked the fetal heartbeat during the appointment.
- Expectant parents often receive a detailed ultrasound to monitor fetal development and ensure the baby is growing at a healthy rate.
- Research into fetal alcohol syndrome has led to stricter public health warnings regarding the consumption of even small amounts of alcohol during pregnancy.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.