0

I'm looking for a word for the next context.

This is a preterm baby which was born with (?x?) nails and hair.

The word should imply that the nails and hair weren't ready yet, as in normal mature baby. I remember I saw word which describes it. What about undone? Does it fit the context? I think this is the word I saw in past, but I'm not sure.

Improve this question
5
  • Undeveloped? Partly developed? Incomplete? – Michael Harvey Jul 11 '20 at 23:26
  • What about undone? Does it fit the context? I think this is the word I saw in past, but I'm not sure. – Judicious Allure Jul 12 '20 at 0:10
  • 1
    It could also be unformed. But we shouldn't be guessing at the word you can't remember. – Jason Bassford Jul 12 '20 at 1:15
  • undone is a synonym for some of the words suggested here by others – green_ideas Jul 12 '20 at 1:17
  • @green_ideas No. "undone" implies that the baby has some sort of control or choice over the growth of hair. It isn't a useful synonym in this context – James K Jul 12 '20 at 8:27
1

Not "undone"

"Immature", "underdeveloped", "partly formed" or (turning the meaning round) "developing": these are all possible words.

Not really about an English adjective, but preterm babies are often covered with body hair called lanugo. So perhaps the expression should be

This is a preterm baby which was born covered with lanugo

Improve this answer

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.