deformation

noun

de·​for·​ma·​tion ˌdē-ˌfȯr-ˈmā-shən  ˌde-fər- 

1

: alteration of form or shape

also : the product of such alteration

2

: the action of deforming : the state of being deformed

3

: change for the worse

deformational

ˌdē-ˌfȯr-ˈmā-sh(ə-)nəl 

ˌde-fər-

adjective

Synonyms of deformation

• distortion
• deformity

Examples of deformation in a Sentence

the catastrophic deformation of the steel girders under the enormous weight of the bridge

Recent Examples on the Web

Higher-frequency deformation patterns initially appeared around the ring before gradually merging into larger movements. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 14 Oct. 2026

According to Formlabs, this improves strength, toughness, heat resistance, and resistance to gradual deformation under sustained loads, while producing a harder, less tacky surface. — Michael Lydick, PC Magazine, 14 Oct. 2026

The collision was intense enough to cause deformation far beneath the surface. — Elizabeth Rayne, ArsTechnica, 30 Sep. 2026

Under a load of 20 tons in addition to its own weight, the platform showed minimal deformation and vibration in relation to its span. — New Atlas, 25 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for deformation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation