preemie

[ pree-mee ]

noun

, Informal.

1. an infant born prematurely; a preterm.

preemie

/ ˈpriːmɪ /

noun

1. slang.
   a premature infant

Word History and Origins

Origin of preemie¹

1925–30; prem(ature), respelled to represent the pronunciation unambiguously + -ie

Word History and Origins

Origin of preemie¹

C20: altered from premature

Example Sentences

The preemie makes a fist and, summoning all his strength, punches through the glass case of his incubator.

From The Daily Beast

Related Words

• babe
• chick
• child
• kid
• toddler
• youngster