deformity

noun

de·​for·​mi·​ty di-ˈfȯr-mə-tē How to pronounce deformity (audio)
dē-
plural deformities
1
: the state of being deformed
2
: imperfection, blemish: such as
a
: a physical blemish or distortion : disfigurement
b
: a moral or aesthetic flaw or defect

Examples of deformity in a Sentence

a disease causing deformity of the spine a primitive culture that cast aside infants born with deformities, allowing them to die of exposure to the elements
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.
The rare genetic bone disorder makes people more susceptible to breaking and fracturing bones and leads to bone deformities and a curved spine, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Vanessa Etienne, People.com, 18 Mar. 2025 However, the improper disposal of the toxic waste led to dozens of children being born with limb deformities. Monica Mercuri, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025 Deleterious effects include discoloration of the teeth, bony deformities as well as moderate evidence that high levels of fluoride could result in lower IQ for children. Omer Awan, Forbes, 6 Nov. 2024 Excessive systemic exposure to fluorides can also lead to skeletal fluorosis, which causes pain, stiffness and bone deformities, or dental/enamel fluorosis, which causes tooth discoloration. Alyssa Goldberg, USA TODAY, 19 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deformity

Word History

Etymology

Middle English deformite, from Middle French defformeteit, from Latin deformitat-, deformitas, from deformis deformed, from de- + forma

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of deformity was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Deformity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deformity. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

deformity

noun
de·​for·​mi·​ty di-ˈfȯr-mət-ē How to pronounce deformity (audio)
plural deformities
1
: the state of being deformed
2
: a physical blemish or twisting out of a natural shape or condition
3
: a morally disgusting or artistically ugly imperfection

Medical Definition

deformity

noun
de·​for·​mi·​ty di-ˈfȯr-mət-ē How to pronounce deformity (audio)
plural deformities
1
: the state of being deformed
2
: a physical blemish or distortion
deformities caused by thalidomide

More from Merriam-Webster on deformity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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