premature etymology

Etymology

The word "premature" comes from the Latin word "praematurus," meaning "too early" or "before its time." The prefix "prae-" means "before" and "maturus" means "ripe" or "mature."

Meaning and Origin

"Premature" is an adjective that describes something that happens or occurs earlier than expected or intended. It is often used in reference to childbirth, when a baby is born before the full 37 weeks of gestation. Premature babies may have health complications due to their underdeveloped organs and systems.

The term "premature" has been used in English since the 16th century. It was originally only used in relation to childbirth, but it has since been expanded to refer to other things that happen too early, such as the release of a product or project, or the end of a relationship.

Examples of Use

  • "The baby was born prematurely at 28 weeks gestation."
  • "The release of the new software was premature and full of bugs."
  • "The relationship ended prematurely after only a few months."

premature relate terms

  • mature

    Etymology The word mature derives from the Latin word maturus meaning ripe full gr

  • preemie

    Etymology The word preemie is a shortened form of the term premature infant Meanin

  • premature

    Etymology The word premature comes from the Latin word praematurus meaning too earl

  • prae

    Etymology Prae is a Latin preposition meaning before or in front of It is derived

  • previous

    Etymology The word previous comes from the Old French word previeus which is derived

  • backfire

    Etymology The word backfire is derived from the Middle English term bacfire which wa

  • non viable

    Etymology Non prefix Not or without Viable Latin Capable of living or s

  • ergophobia

    Etymology Ergophobia Greek ergon work phobos fear Meaning Ergophobia

  • abortion

    Etymology From Latin abortus meaning a miscarriage or premature birth Derived from

  • trespass

    Etymology of Trespass The word trespass originated from the Old French term trespas

  • Amazon

    Etymology The name Amazon is derived from the Greek word Ἀμαζών Amazōn wh

  • booze

    Etymology The word booze is derived from the Middle Dutch word būsen meaning to d

  • astronomy

    Etymology The word astronomy is derived from the Greek words astron ἄστρον

  • resent

    Etymology The word resent comes from the Latin verb resentire which means to feel a