deformity

[ dih-fawr-mi-tee ]

noun

, plural de·form·i·ties.

1. the quality or state of being deformed, deform, deformed, disfigured, or misshapen.
2. Pathology. an abnormally formed part of the body.
3. a deformed deform deformed person or thing.
4. hatefulness; ugliness.

deformity

/ dɪˈfɔːmɪtɪ /

noun

1. a deformed condition; disfigurement
2. pathol an acquired or congenital distortion of an organ or part
3. a deformed person or thing
4. a defect, esp of the mind or morals; depravity

Other Words From

• nonde·formi·ty noun plural nondeformities

Word History and Origins

Origin of deformity¹

1350–1400; Middle English deformite < Old French < Latin dēfōrmitās, equivalent to dēfōrm ( is ) deform ² + -itās -ity

Example Sentences

The third cluster usually presented with spinal deformities, which may require the standard decompression procedure and possible further spine surgeries.

From Science Daily

She says one of her own relatives has had a child "born with deformities" and believes many such cases are not reported because of fear of stigma or lack of access to medical facilities.

From BBC

Permanent fillers like silicone or paraffin have been used but are not recommended, as they have been associated with long-term complications like necrosis and deformities.

From Salon

Infections, scarring, significant deformities and reactions to local anaesthetic, including toxicity, are also risks.

From BBC

He said although this incident had caused him and his family a great deal of sadness, they could now "create awareness around people with facial deformities, facial differences".

From BBC

Related Words

• abnormality
• defect
• impairment
• malformation