disfunction

1 of 2

noun (1)

dis·​func·​tion

less common spelling of dysfunction

1

: impaired or abnormal functioning

gastrointestinal dysfunction

2

: abnormal or unhealthy interpersonal behavior or interaction within a group

family dysfunction

dysfunction

2 of 2

noun (2)

dys·​func·​tion (ˌ)dis-ˈfəŋ(k)-shən 

variants or less commonly disfunction

1

: impaired or abnormal functioning

gastrointestinal dysfunction

2

: abnormal or unhealthy interpersonal behavior or interaction within a group

family dysfunction

Examples of disfunction in a Sentence

Noun (2)

The disease causes gastrointestinal dysfunctions.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

This kind of disorder and disfunction are common occurrences when dealing with Federal Law Enforcement. — Daniel S. Levine, PEOPLE, 19 Nov. 2025

Both Ashworth and Mitchell struggled to adjust to Howe’s existing strong power base, and having joined with huge reputations, egos may have played a big part in the disfunction. — Harry De Cosemo, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025

Noun

Some also fear the potential for dysfunction that could come with it. — Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2026

More than any general theme or idea, Clancy’s crimes seem to have hinged on a moment of catastrophic dysfunction. — Elizabeth Bruenig, The Atlantic, 4 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun (2)

dys- + function entry 1

First Known Use

Noun (2)

circa 1916, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing disfunction

• erectile dysfunction
• minimal brain dysfunction
• temporomandibular joint dysfunction

Rhymes for disfunction

• adjunction
• compunction
• conjunction
• disjunction
• dysfunction
• injunction
• malfunction
• eigenfunction
• multifunction
• function
• junction
• unction

Medical Definition

disfunction

variant of dysfunction