abnormality

noun

ab·​nor·​mal·​i·​ty ˌab-nər-ˈma-lə-tē 

-(ˌ)nȯr-

plural abnormalities

1

: something abnormal

2

: the quality or state of being abnormal

Synonyms

• anomaly
• mutation

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

The term is often used interchangeably with congenital heart defect, which refers specifically to a structural abnormality of the heart that is present at birth and needs medical or surgical intervention. —Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025

Pulmonic stenosis is a congenital heart defect where the flow of blood from the heart to the lungs is obstructed, and a grade VI murmur is the most intense type of heart murmur, typically indicating a significant abnormality. —Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 June 2025

Neurological tests: These tests help your healthcare provider check for abnormalities in your brain function. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 8 June 2025

Surgical removal of the tumor or blood vessel abnormality may prevent seizure recurrence. —Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 5 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

abnormal entry 1 + -ity

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for abnormality

• cardinality
• commonality
• communality
• cordiality
• corporeality
• criminality
• criticality
• functionality
• generality
• geniality
• hospitality
• illegality

Kids Definition

abnormality

noun

ab·​nor·​mal·​i·​ty ˌab-nər-ˈmal-ət-ē 

-(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- 

plural abnormalities

1

: the quality or state of being abnormal

2

: something abnormal

brain-wave abnormalities