deformation

noun

de·​for·​ma·​tion ˌdē-ˌfȯr-ˈmā-shən  ˌde-fər- 

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

ˌdē-ˌfȯr-ˈmā-sh(ə-)nəl 

ˌde-fər-

adjective

Synonyms of deformation

• distortion
• deformity

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

This configuration permits the system to adjust for physical deformation or material degradation during continuous operations without requiring manual mechanical interventions. —Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 10 June 2026

The deformation depends on a single free exponent. —Paul Sutter, Space.com, 26 May 2026

Over time, this deterioration causes not only pain and inflammation but also joint deformation and loss of mobility. —Javier Carbajal, Wired News, 1 May 2026

All of the processes of deformation, faulting and sedimentation are localized in one area, causing the Earth's crust to thin dramatically, according to Rowan, the study's lead author. —Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 29 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for deformation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation