perimenopause

noun

peri·​men·​o·​pause ˌper-ē-ˈme-nə-ˌpȯz How to pronounce perimenopause (audio)
-ˈmē-
: the period around the onset of menopause that is often marked by various physical signs (such as hot flashes and menstrual irregularity)
perimenopausal
ˌper-ē-ˌme-nə-ˈpȯ-zəl How to pronounce perimenopause (audio)
-ˌmē-
adjective

Examples of perimenopause in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Turns out, this chronic eye condition is highly common among women in perimenopause and beyond. — Maria Godoy, NPR, 4 Sep. 2026 Last year, the International Menopause Society published a white paper about how healthy lifestyle changes including improving slumber can do wonders for your perimenopause symptoms. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 1 Sep. 2026 Hair care after 40, particularly during perimenopause and menopause, can be tricky to navigate. — Sarah Madaus, InStyle, 30 Aug. 2026 Cognitive decline can subtly begin in the late 20s, not just old age, with perimenopause around 35 also impacting brain health. — Eman Bare, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for perimenopause

Word History

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of perimenopause was in 1962

Rhymes for perimenopause

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Browse Nearby Words

perimedullary zone
perimenopause
perimeter
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Cite this Entry

“Perimenopause.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perimenopause. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

perimenopause

noun
peri·​men·​o·​pause -ˈmen-ə-ˌpȯz, -ˈmēn- How to pronounce perimenopause (audio)
: the period around the onset of menopause that is often marked by various physical signs (as hot flashes and menstrual irregularity)
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