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 of abnormality

• 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

There's a melancholic tone, an aesthetic darkness and a general abnormality to the new Marvel series that makes it unlike any Marvel series or film before it. —Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 27 Jan. 2026

The hope is that researchers will find interventions that effectively target the immune system abnormalities driving the development of rheumatoid arthritis before the patient’s joints begin to swell. —Kevin Deane, The Conversation, 23 Jan. 2026

We’ll be directed to follow a map toward abnormalities around the old zoo. —Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 21 Jan. 2026

He’s also suffered from the gait abnormality foot drop. —Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 21 Jan. 2026

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