Deform Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฒ
deform
[dษชหfษหm ]
Definitions
physical appearance
To spoil the usual and natural shape or appearance of something, especially by hitting or bending it.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| deform |
Use this word when you want to describe a change in shape that has made something look different, often in a negative way. This can apply to objects, bodies, or natural formations.
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| distort |
This word is usually used when referring to a change that makes something look twisted or out of shape. It can also apply to non-physical things like information or signals.
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| disfigure |
This word is best used when describing damage that alters the appearance of a person or object, making them look unattractive or ugly. It often implies damage to something that was once beautiful or normal.
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| mutilate |
Use this word for describing severe damage that involves cutting or tearing, often applied to bodies or objects. It has a strong negative connotation and suggests a violent action.
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Examples of usage
- He deformed his toy by stepping on it.
- The car was deformed after the accident.
biology
To cause a part of the body to become a different shape, usually in a way that is not attractive or natural.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| deform |
Use in situations where an object's shape is altered, typically by external forces or pressure. It is mostly neutral and descriptive.
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| malform |
Use mostly in medical or biological contexts to describe an organ or body part that has grown in the wrong way. It emphasizes congenital or developmental abnormalities and has a negative connotation.
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| misshape |
Use when something's shape is made incorrect or irregular. This term is less formal and can refer to unintentional and often accidental shape changes.
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Examples of usage
- The disease deforms the bones.
- The virus can deform the fetus.
physical appearance
An unnatural change in the usual shape or appearance of something.
Synonyms
disfigurement, distortion, malformation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| deform |
Use when discussing the change in appearance, especially in a way that makes something not look pleasant. It often has a negative connotation when relating to living beings.
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| distortion |
Use when describing an alteration that makes something look twisted, unclear, or not in its original form. This can apply to physical objects, images, sounds, or even facts.
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| disfigurement |
Used to refer to serious, often permanent damage to the appearance of a person or thing. This term has a strong negative connotation and is usually applied to living beings.
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| malformation |
Best used in medical or biological contexts to describe an abnormality in the formation or structure of an organism, often congenital.
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Examples of usage
- The deformity in his hand was caused by an accident.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, deformity can refer to how materials change under stress, like stretching or compressing.
- Biologically, deformities can occur during development and may affect how organisms function.
- The concept of elasticity describes how materials can deform and return to their original shape.
Art
- In sculpture, artists may intentionally deform material to create unique abstract shapes.
- Cubism, a movement led by Pablo Picasso, often involves the deformation of objects to show multiple viewpoints.
- Distorted forms in artwork can convey emotions or commentary about society.
Psychology
- Perception of deformity can influence a person's feelings towards beauty and aesthetics.
- Research shows that people may react emotionally to seeing deformities in others, affecting social interactions.
- Concepts like 'the uncanny valley' explore reactions to shapes or images that are almost human but slightly askew.
Technology
- In 3D modeling, intentional deformation is used to create animations, making characters more lifelike.
- Technology for correcting physical deformities, like prosthetics, has advanced significantly.
- Computer simulations can model the deformation of materials in real-time for various engineering applications.
Origin of 'deform'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin 'deformare', meaning 'to alter shape' or 'to disfigure'.
- Latin roots breakdown: 'de' means 'down from' or 'away', and 'forma' means 'shape'.
- The word has been in use in English since the late 14th century.
The word 'deform' originates from the Latin word 'deformare', which means 'to disfigure'. It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century. The concept of deformation has been studied in various fields such as physics, biology, and engineering. In biology, deformities can result from genetic mutations, injuries, or environmental factors. The term has also been used metaphorically to describe changes in shape or structure that deviate from the norm.
See also: amorphic, conform, deformed, form, formal, formality, formally, formation, formative, formatter, formed, former, formerly, formic, forming, formless, forms, malform, malformation, multiformity, preformative, reform, unformed.