gestation

[ je-stey-shuhn ]

noun

1. the process, state, or period of gestating.

gestation

/ ˈdʒɛstətɪv; dʒɛˈsteɪ-; dʒɛˈsteɪʃən /

noun

1. 1. the development of the embryo of a viviparous mammal, between conception and birth: about 266 days in humans, 624 days in elephants, and 63 days in cats
   2. ( as modifier )

      gestation period

2. the development of an idea or plan in the mind
3. the period of such a development

gestation

/ jĕ-stā′shən /

1. The period of time spent in the uterus between conception and birth. Gestation in humans is about nine months.

Derived Forms

• gesˈtational, adjective
• ˈgestatory, adjective

Other Words From

• ges·tation·al ges·ta·tive [jes, -t, uh, -tiv, je-, stey, -], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of gestation¹

1525–35; < Latin gestātiōn- (stem of gestātiō ), equivalent to gestāt ( us ) ( gestate ) + -iōn- -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of gestation¹

C16: from Latin gestātiō a bearing, from gestāre to bear, frequentative of gerere to carry

Example Sentences

About 10% of all births worldwide are classified as preterm, which occurs when a baby is born before 37 weeks gestation.

From Science Daily

Florida’s post-Dobbs abortion law makes it a felony to perform or actively participate in an abortion six weeks after gestation.

From Salon

As it stands, Pennsylvania allows abortion up to 24 weeks of gestation, or later if there is a medical emergency that necessitates pregnancy termination.

From Salon

Currently, Florida’s post-Dobbs abortion law makes it a felony to perform or actively participate in an abortion six weeks after gestation.

From Salon

In England, baby loss certificates were introduced in February this year for parents who lose a child under 24 weeks gestation.

From BBC