Placenta Meaning and Definition
Placenta
Pronunciation
/ˈpləsəntə/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A flat, round, oval, or disk-shaped fetal organ attached to the placental area of the uterus, responsible for providing oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus during pregnancy.
Examples
- The doctor carefully examined the placenta after birth to ensure a healthy delivery.
- The placenta plays a crucial role in the development of the fetus.
Synonyms
- Afterbirth
- Fetal organ
Antonyms
- Embryo
- Zygote
Additional Information
The placenta develops in the uterus after fertilization and provides vital functions to the fetus throughout pregnancy. It is typically expelled from the mother’s body within a few minutes after birth. In some cultures, the placenta is believed to have spiritual significance and is given to the parents or buried.
Research has shown that the placenta has unique properties, such as the ability to detect and respond to stress, which may have implications for fetal development and maternal health.
The placenta is also being studied for its potential in regenerative medicine, with researchers exploring its ability to generate stem cells and repair damaged tissues.
Etymology
The word “placenta” comes from the Greek word ” плаκεντα” (plakenta), meaning “flat cake,” due to the organ’s flat, disk-like shape.
Usage Notes
The term “placenta” is typically used in medical contexts, such as obstetrics and gynecology, to refer to the fetal organ. It may also be used in informal settings to describe the afterbirth or the delivery process.
Cultural References
The placenta has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, in the novel “The Power” by Naomi Alderman, the placenta is used as a symbol of female empowerment.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
There are no common idiomatic expressions or phrases that use the word “placenta.”
Related Words or Phrases
Related words or phrases include “afterbirth,” “fetal organ,” and “uterus.”
Collocations
Common collocations with the term “placenta” include “placenta previa,” “placental abruption,” and “placenta accreta.”
Frequency of Use
The term “placenta” is moderately rare in everyday language, but it is frequently used in medical and scientific contexts.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of the word “placenta” include “placenta,” “plasma,” and “platinum.”