Definition

The tissue and membranes that are released from a mother's body after giving birth.

Example

The doctor examined the afterbirth to ensure that everything was expelled properly.

Conversation

Did you know that the afterbirth is usually delivered after the baby?

Yeah, I heard it’s important for the mother’s recovery.

Exactly! They say it helps with the uterus contracting back to normal.

That makes sense. It's fascinating how the body works.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Afterbirth → It is formed from "after" (from Old English "æfter", meaning following in time or place) and "birth" (from Old English "berthan", meaning to bring forth or give birth). The word "afterbirth" refers to the placenta and other membranes expelled after the birth of a baby.

Memory Tip

Think of something that comes 'after' ('after') the act of 'giving birth' ('birth') — that's what afterbirth means.

Visually Confused Words