abnormality

noun

ab·​nor·​mal·​i·​ty ˌab-nər-ˈma-lə-tē How to pronounce abnormality (audio)
-(ˌ)nȯr-
plural abnormalities
Synonyms of abnormalitynext
1
: something abnormal
2
: the quality or state of being abnormal

Synonyms of abnormality

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Examples of abnormality in a Sentence

The test results showed several genetic abnormalities. There was some abnormality in his vision.
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.
Pregnancy loss can stem from chromosomal or structural abnormalities, such as a uterine septum, fibroids or scar tissue. — Katherine Pukinskis, The Conversation, 26 Oct. 2026 Even abnormalities detected on an MRI are not necessarily unique to MS. — Bruce Bebo, STAT, 24 Oct. 2026 The virus may also cause congenital abnormalities in newborn calves. — Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 23 Oct. 2026 Previously, evaluating Alzheimer’s risk or detecting early brain abnormalities required invasive spinal taps, expensive PET scans, or limited genetic testing. — Cindy Krischer Goodman, Miami Herald, 21 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for abnormality

Word History

Etymology

abnormal entry 1 + -ity

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of abnormality was in 1847

Rhymes for abnormality

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Browse Nearby Words

abnormalism
abnormality
abnormalize
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Cite this Entry

“Abnormality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/abnormality. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

abnormality

noun
ab·​nor·​mal·​i·​ty ˌab-nər-ˈmal-ət-ē How to pronounce abnormality (audio)
-(ˌ)nȯr-
plural abnormalities
1
: the state of being abnormal
2
: something abnormal

Medical Definition

abnormality

noun
ab·​nor·​mal·​i·​ty ˌab-nər-ˈmal-ət-ē, -(ˌ)nȯr- How to pronounce abnormality (audio)
plural abnormalities
1
: the quality or state of being abnormal
2
: something abnormal
brain-wave abnormalities
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