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Malformed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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malformed

[mælˈfɔrmd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

technical issues

Malformed refers to something that has been incorrectly formed or structured. This term is often used in computing and data processing, particularly when analyzing documents, data files, or requests that do not conform to the expected format. When an object is malformed, it can lead to errors and unexpected behavior in systems. Examples include malformed HTML code or a malformed JSON string, which can prevent web pages or applications from functioning properly.

Synonyms

flawed, improper, incorrect.

Examples of usage

  • The server returned an error due to a malformed request.
  • We need to fix this malformed XML before continuing.
  • The error message indicated that the JSON was malformed.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medicine

  • In medicine, it often describes physical deformities or anomalies in development, which can affect function and health.
  • Certain congenital malformations can result from genetic factors or environmental influences during pregnancy.

Computing

  • In computer programming, a malformed input often triggers errors, since the system cannot understand incorrectly formatted data.
  • Developers focus on writing clean, well-formed code to ensure software runs smoothly and is maintainable.

Literature

  • Authors sometimes use malformation as a metaphor, indicating deeper issues in a character’s psyche or society.
  • Frankenstein, for example, showcases the idea of malformation, illustrating the consequences of unnatural creation.

Art

  • In sculpture and visual arts, malformations can represent societal issues, with artists often embracing imperfections.
  • Contemporary art often challenges traditional ideas of beauty by celebrating distorted forms and irregular shapes.

Origin of 'malformed'

Main points about word origin

  • The prefix 'mal-' comes from Latin, meaning 'bad' or 'wrong', while 'formed' is derived from the old French 'former', meaning 'to shape'.
  • The word originated in the late 19th century, as a way to describe biological and structural defects.

The word 'malformed' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'mal-', meaning 'bad' or 'wrong', and the verb 'form', which comes from the Latin 'forma', meaning 'shape' or 'appearance'. This formation reflects the term's focus on something that has been improperly shaped or structured. Its usage can be traced back to the early 19th century, wherein it began to appear in legal and technical texts to describe inadequacies in form or structure. Malformed is particularly prevalent in discussions of programming and data formats, where the integrity of structure is integral to functionality. Over the years, as technology has evolved, so too has the application of the term, becoming increasingly relevant in the context of software development, web design, and database management.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,631, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.