birth defect

noun

: a physical or biochemical defect that is present at birth and may be inherited or environmentally induced

Examples of birth defect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In making their decision, the panelists discussed a number of fringe ideas that aren’t supported by scientific evidence, including claims that injuries caused by Covid vaccines aren’t well-documented and that the shots can lead to cancer or birth defects. —Rebecca Shabad, NBC news, 13 Jan. 2026

Up to 70% of all neural tube birth defects can be prevented when people consume 400 micrograms of folic acid prior to conception, according to the California Department of Public Health. —Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado january 12, Sacbee.com, 12 Jan. 2026

Before his freshman season, Fox’s heart screening showed a birth defect. —Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 11 Jan. 2026

California now requires corn masa flour to contain folic acid to reduce birth defects among Latinos. —Rachel Hatzipanagos, Washington Post, 10 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1864, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

birth defect

noun

: a serious defect (as in physical or mental function) that is present at birth and is inherited or caused by something that happens or exists in the environment

Medical Definition

birth defect

noun

: a physical or biochemical defect (as cleft palate, phenylketonuria, or Down syndrome) that is present at birth and may be inherited or environmentally induced