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

The baby was diagnosed with truncus arteriosus, a rare, life-threatening congenital birth defect where a single common blood vessel leaves the heart instead of the usual two. — Wendy Grossman Kantor, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026

But topiramate is also known to cause birth defects, and can make hormonal birth control less effective when taken at higher doses. — Isabella Cueto, STAT, 31 Aug. 2026

By contrast, dermatologists advise against using tretinoin during pregnancy because of the potential risk of birth defects. — Kelsey Stewart, Allure, 18 Aug. 2026

The herbicide has been linked to potential thyroid issues and birth defects in humans. — Sacbee.com, 15 Aug. 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