deviance

noun

de·​vi·​ance ˈdē-vē-ən(t)s How to pronounce deviance (audio)
: deviant quality, state, or behavior

Examples of deviance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One real danger here is the normalization of deviance — when small ethical compromises become routine, paving the way for larger issues down the line. Rhett Power, Forbes.com, 6 July 2025 Factor 2: Antisocial behavior (e.g., deviance from an early age, aggression, impulsivity, irresponsibility, proneness to boredom). New Atlas, 26 June 2025 The Righteous Gemstones tells the story of a world-famous televangelist family with a long tradition of deviance, greed, and charitable work. Katie Campione, Deadline, 23 Jan. 2025 Many immigrant communities either ignore mental health challenges or see symptoms as evidence of spiritual deviance. Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 6 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for deviance

Word History

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of deviance was in 1941

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Deviance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deviance. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

deviance

noun
de·​vi·​ance ˈdē-vē-ən(t)s How to pronounce deviance (audio)
: quality, state, or behavior that differs from what is normal or accepted

Medical Definition

deviance

noun
de·​vi·​ance ˈdē-vē-ən(t)s How to pronounce deviance (audio)
: deviant quality, state, or behavior

More from Merriam-Webster on deviance

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