The plural of fetus is fetuses or feti.
Understanding the Plural Forms of Fetus
The English language often adopts words from other languages, and "fetus" is a prime example, originating from Latin. This Latin root gives rise to two accepted plural forms for the word.
According to information dated September 5, 2022, the primary and more commonly used plural form is fetuses. This follows the standard English rule of adding "-es" to nouns ending in "-s".
However, due to its Latin origin, "fetus" also has a plural form derived from Latin grammar: feti. While grammatically correct based on its etymology, feti is considered a less common plural form in modern English usage.
Plural Options
| Singular Term | Common Plural Term | Less Common Plural Term | Origin of Less Common Plural |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fetus | Fetuses | Feti | Latin Root |
Examples in Context
Here are examples illustrating how both plural forms can be used:
- Studies are observing the development of multiple fetuses during the first trimester.
- In ancient texts discussing embryology, one might encounter references to the development of feti.
- Medical professionals typically refer to multiple unborn babies as fetuses.
While fetuses is the standard and widely recognized plural in contemporary English, particularly in medical and general contexts, feti remains a valid, albeit less frequent, option rooted in the word's Latin history. Choosing which plural to use often depends on context and personal preference, though fetuses is generally the safest and clearest choice for broad communication.
