ectopic

American  

[ek-top-ik] / ɛkˈtɒp ɪk /

adjective

Pathology.

1. occurring in an abnormal position or place; displaced.

---

ectopic Scientific  

/ ĕk-tŏp′ĭk /

1. Out of place, as of an organ not in its proper position, or of a pregnancy occurring elsewhere than in the cavity of the uterus.

2. Of or relating to a heartbeat that has its origin elsewhere than in the sinoatrial node.

---

Etymology

Origin of ectopic

First recorded in 1870–75; ectop(ia) + -ic

Example Sentences

But an ectopic pregnancy scare meant she saw a gynaecologist who was able to prescribe xonvea.

From BBC • Jan. 21, 2026

In an ectopic pregnancy, the placenta can’t safely grow, increasing the chances of maternal bleeding and fetal death, according to the release.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 12, 2025

In another, a woman in pain went to the emergency room and was found to have an ectopic pregnancy — a pregnancy growing outside of her uterus, endangering her life and future fertility.

From Salon • Jun. 22, 2025

So, for instance, these policies must cover termination in the case of ectopic pregnancies and other conditions that seriously threaten the health of the patient.

From Slate • Jun. 16, 2025

Mutations in the genes thus result in malformed, ectopic segments and organs.

From "The Gene" by Siddhartha Mukherjee