labor pains

[ ley-ber peynz ]

plural noun

1. pain experienced as a result of uterine contractions during childbirth.
2. difficulties, problems, or setbacks encountered during the initial phase of a business or project.

Word History and Origins

Origin of labor pains¹

First recorded in 1745–55

Example Sentences

Another co-defendant accosted a woman who was having labor pains, preventing her from getting off a floor and entering the clinic, prosecutors said.

From Seattle Times

That care might include snacks, massages or warm compresses but also more substantive assistance, like suggesting movements to ease labor pains or help with breastfeeding.

From New York Times

Nobody noticed until it was too late that Josie’s mother was gasping in distress, not just labor pains.

From Literature

At first, her vocals are operatic and pretty, but soon she shrieks and moans like a woman suffering labor pains or nightmares.

From New York Times

At first, she brushed it off as Braxton Hicks, false labor pains not uncommon in the late stages of pregnancy.

From Los Angeles Times