reproductive cycle
nounUK /ˌriːprəˈdʌktɪv ˈsaɪkl/
US /ˌriːprəˈdʌktɪv ˈsaɪkl/
The pattern of changes that happens in a living thing so it can make babies.
The female rabbit's reproductive cycle repeats about every month.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The repeating series of stages in the reproduction of a plant or animal.
Scientists studied the reproductive cycle of the salmon from egg to adult.
3. The monthly series of changes in a woman's body that prepares it for possible pregnancy.
The doctor explained how the reproductive cycle affects energy levels.
4. The seasonal pattern during which animals mate and raise young.
Many birds follow a reproductive cycle that begins in spring.