1. occurring or born before the normal time, especially before the completion of a full pregnancy
Usage: medical

1. a baby born before the normal time of birth
Usage: medical

Examples

• The preterm baby weighed only three pounds at birth.
• Preterm labor can be a serious medical concern.
• The hospital has a special unit for preterm infants.
• She delivered her preterm at 34 weeks of pregnancy.
• Preterm births require immediate medical attention.
• The preterm needed respiratory support after delivery.
• Doctors work to prevent preterm delivery when possible.