malformation

noun

mal·​for·​ma·​tion ˌmal-fȯr-ˈmā-shən 

-fər-

: irregular, anomalous, abnormal, or faulty formation or structure

Examples of malformation in a Sentence

The condition is marked by malformation of the spine.

She underwent surgery to correct a heart malformation.

Recent Examples on the Web

In Hrubec’s lab, the malformations took a different form — neural tube defects similar to spina bifida in humans, in which parts of the spinal column fail to close, or anencephaly, where the skull and brain never fully develop. — Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 7 Aug. 2026

Sixteen-year-old Quin Duncan is a varsity lacrosse player in Wilmington is relieved to be back on the field after a bout with arteriovenous malformation (AVM). — Stephanie Stahl, CBS News, 4 June 2026

Along with epilepsy, Benjamin also has cerebral palsy, cortical visual impairment and severe vision impairment caused by underdeveloped optic nerves and malformations in the visual centers of his brain. — Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 19 May 2026

At 14 weeks, Martinez learned the baby had a rare, severe congenital brain malformation. — Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 2 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1800, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for malformation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

malformation

noun

mal·​for·​ma·​tion ˌmal-fȯr-ˈmā-shən 

-fər-

: a misshapen, abnormal, or faulty formation or structure

malformation of the knee joint

Medical Definition

malformation

noun

mal·​for·​ma·​tion ˌmal-fȯr-ˈmā-shən, -fər- 

: irregular, anomalous, abnormal, or faulty formation or structure

congenital malformations