dwarfism

noun

dwarf·​ism ˈdwȯr-ˌfi-zəm How to pronounce dwarfism (audio)
: a condition of stunted growth
especially : a condition (such as achondroplasia) of people and animals marked by unusually small size or short stature

Examples of dwarfism 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.
Told from multiple points of view, as a means to explore issues of perspective, bias, and trauma, Good American Family is inspired by the disturbing stories surrounding a Midwestern couple who adopts a girl with a rare form of dwarfism. Katie Campione, Deadline, 6 May 2025 Based on the disturbing real-life case of Natalia Grace, the series stars Ellen Pompeo and Mark Duplass as Kristine and Michael Barnett, a couple who adopt a six-year-old Ukrainian girl with a rare form of dwarfism, Natalia Grace (Imogen Faith Reid). Monica Mercuri, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025 The show dramatizes the real story the Barnett family adopting Natalia Grace, a child with dwarfism, in 2010. Barry Levitt, Time, 30 Apr. 2025 In addition to his résumé as an actor, Barty was an advocate for others with dwarfism and founded the Little People of America organization and the Billy Barty Foundation. Alexandra Schonfeld, People.com, 5 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dwarfism

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dwarfism was in 1833

Cite this Entry

“Dwarfism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dwarfism. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

dwarfism

noun
dwarf·​ism ˈdwȯr-ˌfiz-əm How to pronounce dwarfism (audio)
: a condition of stunted growth
especially : a condition (as achondroplasia) marked by unusually small size or short stature

More from Merriam-Webster on dwarfism

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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