Mishapen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mishapen

[mɪˈʃeɪpən ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

description of shape

Not having the intended or usual shape; misshapen objects are often asymmetrical and irregular in appearance.

Synonyms

asymmetrical, deformed, distorted, irregular, misshapen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
misshapen	Used to describe something that does not have its normal or expected shape, often suggesting a flawed or unattractive appearance. The misshapen loaf of bread looked unappetizing. He discovered misshapen carrots in his garden.
deformed	Often implies a noticeable, sometimes severe, alteration from the normal shape, and can carry a negative connotation. The pottery was deformed during the firing process. His deformed hand made everyday tasks difficult.
distorted	Typically used when the original form of something is changed or warped in a way that it's hard to recognize; often suggests a negative or misleading alteration. The reflection in the old mirror was distorted. Her voice sounded distorted over the phone.
irregular	Commonly used to describe something not conforming to a standard shape or pattern, and is often used in less critical or neutral situations. The garden path was made of irregular stones. Her breathing became irregular after the sprint.
asymmetrical	Used in situations where balance or symmetry is expected but is absent; often more neutral or technical in tone. Her design style is known for its asymmetrical layouts. The plank's edges are asymmetrical, making it hard to fit.

Examples of usage

The mishapen pumpkin was still delicious when turned into a pie.
Her mishapen ear was the result of a birth defect.
The artist intentionally created mishapen sculptures to provoke thought and discussion.
The mishapen rock formations in the cave were a result of years of erosion.
The mishapen tree trunk twisted and turned in unpredictable ways.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art

Many modern artists intentionally create mishapen sculptures to challenge traditional beauty standards.
In abstract art, mishapen forms can evoke emotions or interpretations beyond realistic shapes.

Science

In nature, mishapen fruits and vegetables can develop due to lack of nutrients or irregular growth conditions.
Some genetic mutations in animals can result in mishapen features, leading to discussions about natural diversity.

Psychology

Perception of mishapen objects can influence feelings of discomfort or attraction, highlighting individual preferences.
Studies show that people often perceive mishapen forms as humorous or less intimidating in art and design.

Culture

In folklore, mishapen characters are often depicted as quirky and lovable, challenging conventional ideas of beauty.
Various cultures celebrate mishapen objects as artifacts, often believing they hold unique spiritual significance.

Origin of 'mishapen'

Main points about word origin

The term comes from Old English origins, where prefixes like 'mis-' mean wrong or bad.
It's a combination of 'mis-' (badly) and 'shape', reflecting the meaning of being incorrectly shaped.

The word 'mishapen' derives from the combination of the prefix 'mis-' meaning badly or wrongly, and 'shapen' which is an archaic form of the word 'shaped'. The usage of 'mishapen' can be traced back to Middle English, where it was used to describe things that were poorly or incorrectly shaped. Over time, the spelling evolved to 'misshapen' and eventually to the modern form 'mishapen'. The word has been used in literature and everyday language to describe objects, body parts, and natural formations that deviate from the expected or usual shape.