noun
- an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy to provide nutrients and oxygen to the fetus and remove waste products
Usage: medical; biology
Examples
- The placenta connects the developing baby to the mother’s blood supply.
- After delivery, the doctor examined the placenta to ensure it was complete.
- The placenta is expelled from the uterus shortly after birth.
- Blood flows through the placenta to nourish the growing fetus.
- Problems with the placenta can affect the baby’s development.
- The placenta acts as a barrier protecting the fetus from some infections.