Definition

The event of giving birth to a baby that is not alive.

Example

The family was heartbroken after experiencing a stillbirth.

Conversation

I heard that Sarah had a really tough time during her pregnancy.

Yeah, I read about that; she faced a stillbirth which is just heartbreaking.

It's so sad to think about what she must be going through right now.

I know, it's a pain that no one should have to experience.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stillbirth is formed from "still" (from Old English *stille*, meaning quiet or motionless) and "birth" (from Old English *berthan*, meaning to bring forth or give birth). The term refers to the birth of a baby that is not alive, emphasizing the quietness or absence of life at the time of birth.

Memory Tip

Think of 'still' meaning quiet or motionless, and 'birth' meaning to bring forth. This helps you remember that 'stillbirth' refers to a birth that is quiet because the baby is not alive.

Visually Confused Words