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

The collision was intense enough to cause deformation far beneath the surface. — Elizabeth Rayne, ArsTechnica, 30 Sep. 2026

Under a load of 20 tons in addition to its own weight, the platform showed minimal deformation and vibration in relation to its span. — New Atlas, 25 Sep. 2026

Topologists are therefore interested in how the n-dimensional Poincaré conjecture turns out when only diffeomorphic deformations are permitted. — Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 22 Sep. 2026

Designed as a water-free alternative to costly water-spraying setups, this technology mitigates high track temperatures caused by extreme heat waves, reducing deformation risks and speed delays. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 2 Sep. 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