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

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.
Any abnormalities, such as areas of inflammation or suspicious growths, can be biopsied and tested. Miriam Fauzia, Dallas Morning News, 19 Mar. 2026 Blood pressure medications can also cause electrolyte abnormalities, which are more likely to be life-threatening in an older patient. Mara Gordon, NPR, 17 Mar. 2026 Yet standard neurological imaging, such as MRI scans, almost never detects abnormalities, and most physicians, who understand the symptoms’ basis in only the most rudimentary sense, can offer little useful counsel. Jacob Stern, The Atlantic, 16 Mar. 2026 King was rushed to a hospital and later underwent surgery to address a heart abnormality, which temporarily left her career in doubt. Kevin Baxter, Los Angeles Times, 16 Mar. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Abnormality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/abnormality. Accessed 21 Mar. 2026.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on abnormality

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