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

That's what Lindsay's character did in the 2009 straight-to-cable flop Labor Pains.

From The Daily Beast

Ask the mother of a family if the labor pains show any respect of sex.

From Project Gutenberg

This is done so deftly that labor pains do not come on for sometimes two days afterwards.

From Project Gutenberg

The object of this is because experience shows that the labor pains are stronger, and more frequent, when in the upright position.

From Project Gutenberg

I have observed them to follow from severe labor pains in the mare.

From Project Gutenberg

For irregularity of labor pains, and for distressing after pains, the Caulophyllin is specific.

From Project Gutenberg