birth defect

noun

: a physical or biochemical defect that is present at birth and may be inherited or environmentally induced

Examples of birth defect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

One of a handful of practicing physicians in the state legislature, Weber Pierson is leaning heavily on her experience as a pediatric and adolescent gynecologist who treats children with reproductive birth defects — one of only two in Southern California. —Kaiser Health News, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 May 2025

Thorne also wrote Toxic Town, also streamed by Netflix, telling the real-life story of the Corby case that occurred in the 1980s and ‘90s, when numerous children were born with birth defects after a toxic waste site was established near the town in Northamptonshire, UK. —Caroline Frost, Deadline, 10 May 2025

In pregnant women, excess vitamin A can lead to birth defects. —Neha Mukherjee, CNN Money, 26 Mar. 2025

The abnormalities are likely birth defects that Keno has adapted to over time, according to Vintage Pet Rescue. —Kelli Bender, People.com, 25 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1864, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

birth defect

noun

: a serious defect (as in physical or mental function) that is present at birth and is inherited or caused by something that happens or exists in the environment

Medical Definition

birth defect

noun

: a physical or biochemical defect (as cleft palate, phenylketonuria, or Down syndrome) that is present at birth and may be inherited or environmentally induced