Definition of conception

The word "conception" has its roots in the Latin word "conceptio," which literally translates to "taking hold of" or "grasping." This word eventually made its way into Old French as "conceptioun," before entering Middle English, where it was spelled "concepcion" and meaning "comprehension" or "understanding." As the English language evolved, the meaning of the word changed to refer specifically to the process by which a fertilized egg develops into a fetus in a pregnant woman. This development of meaning occurred during the 14th century, when Old English words for "conceive" and "bear" became obsolete. "Conception" has been used in this sense ever since. The term has also been used in a broader sense throughout history, as a concept that pertains to the acquisition of knowledge or the formation of ideas. This broader meaning has contributed to the medical, philosophical, and theological domains, as well as technical and scientific fields. In summary, the word "conception" originated from the Latin word "conceptio," which translates to "taking hold of" or "grasping." It evolved through Old French and Middle English, with a change in meaning in the 14th century to refer specifically to the process by which a fertilized egg develops into a fetus in pregnant women. The term has also been used in broader senses throughout history, in disciplines beyond the field of medicine.