superfetation noun. [,su:pǝfi:'teɪʃ(ǝ)n, ,sju:-] E17.
[French superfétation or mod. Latin superfetatio(n-), from superfetare conceive by superfetation, formed as SUPER- + FOETUS: see -ATION.]
1. A second conception occurring during pregnancy; the formation of a second foetus in a uterus already pregnant. E17.
b. Botany. In early use, a process supposed to be analogous to superfetation in animals, e.g. the growth of a parasite, an excessive production of ears of corn. In mod. use, the fertilization of the same ovule by two different kinds of pollen. E17.

2. fig. Additional or superabundant production or occurrence; the growth or accretion of one thing on another; an instance of this; an accretion, an excrescence. E17.

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲