adjective
gravid
GRAV-id/ˈɡrævɪd/
Carrying developing young or eggs.
The gravid crayfish carries a dense cluster of eggs beneath her abdomen.
Etymology
Latin gravidus described something loaded, full, or swollen and also meant pregnant. The selected sense preserves that image of a body laden with developing young.
In context
she is gravid, with all that rapid weight gain from all the eggs and stuff.
More examples
- The ultrasound confirms that the lizard is gravid.
- Gravid mosquitoes seek standing water where they can lay eggs.
- A gravid guppy needs a quiet place to give birth.
Forms
gravid
gravidity noun — The condition of carrying young or eggs.
Similar words
- pregnant
- The usual term for carrying developing offspring, especially in mammals.
- egg-bearing
- Specifically describes animals carrying eggs, not developing live young.