Malform: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in medical or biological contexts to describe something that did not form correctly, often from birth.

• The baby's heart was malformed, causing serious health issues

Often describes a physical alteration that makes something look strange or unnatural, can be due to injury, disease, or outside pressure.

• The car was deformed after the accident

Used when something loses its natural or intended shape, usually implies a loss of attractiveness or functionality.

• The vase misshaped during firing in the kiln

Frequently used to describe changes in the shape, appearance, or sound of something, often used in contexts like images, sound, or information.

• The funhouse mirrors distort your reflection for a humorous effect

This term is commonly used in medical or biological contexts to describe something that has developed in an abnormal or defective way. It is typically more technical.

• The infant was born with a malformed heart.
• Certain genetic mutations can malform organs.

Generally used in medical or physical contexts to describe a physical abnormality or malformation, often implying a visible and significant change in appearance. It carries a slightly negative connotation.

• The injury resulted in a permanent deformity of his leg.
• She was born with a facial deformity.

Used broadly across various contexts to describe something that deviates from the norm or standard. It can be applied in medical, social, and physical contexts.

• The doctor detected an abnormality in the patient's blood test.
• There was an abnormality in the data set.

Often used in scientific, technical, or statistical contexts to describe something that is unusual or unexpected compared to what is typical or standard.

• The satellite detected an anomaly in the Earth's magnetic field.
• Her test results showed several anomalies.