dysmorphic

adjective

dys·​mor·​phic dis-ˈmȯr-fik 

: characterized by malformation

mildly dysmorphic ears

dysmorphic cells

Examples of dysmorphic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Several mental health conditions, such as eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, depression, and anxiety, are associated with a negative or distorted body image. —Laura Dorwart, Verywell Health, 24 Sep. 2024

There is increasing evidence that social media exacerbates body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which can manifest in obsessive thoughts and feelings about your body or facial features. —Jacqueline Kilikita, refinery29.com, 2 Aug. 2024

If not, alternatives are explored, with a strong emphasis on ethical responsibilities, particularly assessing patient motivations and potential body dysmorphic disorders. —Nick Kasmik, USA TODAY, 18 May 2024

But for some people, these negative self-assessments can escalate into body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 20 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

dys- + -morphic

First Known Use

1954, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

dysmorphic

adjective

dys·​mor·​phic dis-ˈmȯr-fik 

1

: characterized by anatomical malformation

mildly dysmorphic ears

… the urinary red cells were characteristically dysmorphic and hypochromic.

—Bruce S. Chang, The Journal of the American Medical Association

2

: having or exhibiting an anatomical malformation

Taking care of Melissa, and other children like her, did of course change the way I looked at dysmorphic children. I lost the habit of the quick look-and-look-away, the almost-recoil, as I got more accustomed to various dysmorphisms and what they implied.

—Perri Klass, Discover