noun / adjective
slink
An animal born before it is fully developed.
The farmer checks the slink for signs of life.
Etymology
The animal noun comes from an older reproductive use of slink. Its relationship to stealthy movement is uncertain.
More examples
- The cow gives birth to a slink weeks before her due date.
- The slink calf is too weak to stand.
- The shepherd wraps the two slinks in warm towels.
Forms
slink · slinks
prematurity noun — The state of being born too early.
Similar words
- premature
- Describes birth before full term, not specifically in animals.