aberrance

noun

ab·​er·​rance (ˈ)a-ˈber-ən(t)s  ə- 

-ˈbe-rən(t)s;

ˈa-bə-rən(t)s, 

-ˌber-ən(t)s, 

-ˌbe-rən(t)s

variants or aberrancy

(ˈ)a-ˈber-ən(t)-sē  ə- 

-ˈbe-rən(t)-;

ˈa-bə-rən(t)-sē, 

-ˌber-ən(t)-, 

-ˌbe-rən(t)-

plural aberrances or aberrancies

: deviation

Word History

Etymology

Latin aberrant-, aberrans, present participle of aberrare "to wander away" + -ance or -ancy, perhaps on the model of errant:errancy

First Known Use

1661, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Rhymes for aberrance

• forbearance
• clarence