deformation

noun

de·​for·​ma·​tion ˌdē-ˌfȯr-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce deformation (audio) ˌde-fər- How to pronounce deformation (audio)
1
: alteration of form or shape
also : the product of such alteration
2
: the action of deforming : the state of being deformed
3
: change for the worse
deformational adjective

Examples of deformation in a Sentence

the catastrophic deformation of the steel girders under the enormous weight of the bridge
Recent Examples on the Web The location of the deformation right now suggests to the IMO that the eruption is likely to start between Mt. Stóra-Skógfell and Mt. Hagafell. Erik Klemetti, Discover Magazine, 29 Feb. 2024 Mechanical deformations will open a bandgap, and bandgaps up to 0.2 electron volts have been demonstrated. IEEE Spectrum, 18 Jan. 2024 Seismicity and ground deformation data have revealed a sheet of magma moving beneath Grindavík, potentially reactivating existing fissures and introducing new ones, per a statement by the Icelandic Met Office (IMO). Catherine Duncan, Smithsonian Magazine, 16 Jan. 2024 Experimentally characterized crawling and deformation profiles, combined with numerical simulations, reveal programmable motion through changes in cut shape, magnet orientation, and translational motion. IEEE Spectrum, 8 Dec. 2023 The most intense deformation does appear to be happening just to the south of Mt. Porbjörn, so that could be the spot that is most likely to see an eruption. Erik Klemetti, Discover Magazine, 11 Nov. 2023 Pilbara, however, has escaped the heating and deformation suffered by most other Archean rocks. Howard Lee, Ars Technica, 16 Aug. 2023 There is an initial deformation stage, followed by a brief period of rapid growth (less than 100 milliseconds), after which the bubble reaches a spherical shape. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 16 May 2023 Scientists observed a spike in seismic activity and ground deformation atop a volcanic system named Svartsengi to the southwest of the previous three eruptions. Robin George Andrews, Scientific American, 19 Dec. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'deformation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of deformation was in 1551

Dictionary Entries Near deformation

Cite this Entry

“Deformation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deformation. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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