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

Some of the chemicals belonging to this class have been linked to negative health effects such as birth defects and cancer. — Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 24 June 2026

Fossil fuel emissions are drivers of climate change and linked to a range of health conditions, including asthma, various cancers and birth defects. — Katie King, Los Angeles Times, 21 June 2026

Masters was born in Ukraine with birth defects suspected to be caused by radiation poisoning from the Chernobyl disaster. — Sean Gregory, Time, 9 June 2026

Hatz is a professional athlete who shares that she was born with a rare birth defect. — Carolyn Burt, Oc Register, 29 May 2026

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