birth defect

noun

: a physical or biochemical defect that is present at birth and may be inherited or environmentally induced

Examples of birth defect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For example, too much vitamin A can lead to birth defects, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). —Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 15 Sep. 2025

Its studies showed no increased risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or other adverse events. —Meg Tirrell, CNN Money, 12 Sep. 2025

Available clinical trial and pharmacovigilance data remain insufficient to establish whether semaglutide increases the risk of birth defects, miscarriage or other adverse outcomes, meaning treatment decisions should be made on a case-by-case basis with a licensed healthcare professional. —Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Sep. 2025

If the fetus survives an early rubella infection, some babies are born with a constellation of birth defects known as congenital rubella syndrome, which can include deafness, cataracts, congenital heart disease and neurodevelopmental impairment. —Michal Ruprecht, NPR, 8 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1864, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

birth defect

noun

: a serious defect (as in physical or mental function) that is present at birth and is inherited or caused by something that happens or exists in the environment

Medical Definition

birth defect

noun

: a physical or biochemical defect (as cleft palate, phenylketonuria, or Down syndrome) that is present at birth and may be inherited or environmentally induced