adj.1 a occurring or done before the usual or proper time; too early (a premature decision). b too hasty (must not be premature).
2 (of a baby, esp. a viable one) born (esp. three or more weeks) before the end of the full term of gestation.
Derivatives:
prematurely adv. prematureness n. prematurity n.
Etymology: L praematurus very early (as PRAE-, MATURE)