Congenital - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Congenital refers to a condition or trait present at birth, often due to genetic factors or prenatal development. It is commonly used in medical contexts to describe birth defects or inherent characteristics.
Definition:
Present at birth, often referring to medical conditions or traits.
Synonyms:
innate, inborn, inherent, hereditary
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
acquired, developed
Common Collocations:
congenital disorder, congenital defect, congenital heart disease, congenital abnormality
Derivatives:
congenitally, congenitalness
Usage Tips:
Use "congenital" for conditions or traits existing from birth; avoid for learned behaviors or acquired characteristics.
Common Phrases:
congenital condition, congenital disease, born with a silver spoon (idiom)
Etymology:
From Latin "congenitus," meaning "born with," combining "con-" (with) and "genitus" (born).
Examples:
- 1. The baby was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect.
- 2. Congenital blindness requires specialized care from early childhood.
- 3. Her artistic talent seemed almost congenital, as she drew beautifully by age three.
- 4. Some congenital conditions can be detected during pregnancy through ultrasound.