abnormality

noun

ab·​nor·​mal·​i·​ty ˌab-nər-ˈma-lə-tē How to pronounce abnormality (audio)
-(ˌ)nȯr-
plural abnormalities
1
: something abnormal
2
: the quality or state of being abnormal

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But a self-exam shouldn’t just involve touch; look for visual changes or abnormalities on your breasts, too. Anisa Arsenault, Health, 24 Oct. 2025 If the aneurysm is found in a healthy patient and doesn’t show any high-risk features, doctors will monitor it and check for signs of growth or other abnormalities over time. Kaan Ozcan, NBC news, 23 Oct. 2025 Before the stethoscope, physicians often placed their ear directly on a patient’s chest to listen for abnormalities in breathing and heart sounds. Joshua Hutcheson, The Conversation, 16 Oct. 2025 According to the zoo, Maka was diagnosed with chromosomal abnormalities at just 5 years old but managed to thrive with the help of wildlife health and care teams. Saleen Martin, USA Today, 14 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for abnormality

Word History

Etymology

abnormal entry 1 + -ity

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of abnormality was in 1847

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Abnormality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/abnormality. Accessed 26 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

abnormality

noun
ab·​nor·​mal·​i·​ty ˌab-nər-ˈmal-ət-ē How to pronounce abnormality (audio)
-(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- How to pronounce abnormality (audio)
plural abnormalities
1
: the quality or state of being abnormal
2
: something abnormal
brain-wave abnormalities

More from Merriam-Webster on abnormality

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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