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

If ingested in large enough quantities, this plant also can cause heart rhythm abnormalities, seizures and death. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 24 Sep. 2025

Porter previously underwent heart surgeries, which sparked an electrical abnormality and impacted his heart, doctors said, per the outlet. —David Chiu, PEOPLE, 23 Sep. 2025

The next step can be ordering imaging of your liver like an ultrasound or CT to look for evidence of abnormalities like fat accumulation in your liver. —Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025

King was later diagnosed with a heart abnormality that required her to undergo surgery. —Tamerra Griffin, New York Times, 15 Sep. 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