Mishapen: meaning, definitions and examples

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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?

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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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "mishapen" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deformado

🇮🇳 विकृत

🇩🇪 verformt

🇮🇩 cacat

🇺🇦 деформований

🇵🇱 zdeformowany

🇯🇵 変形した

🇫🇷 déformé

🇪🇸 deformado

🇹🇷 deforme

🇰🇷 변형된

🇸🇦 مشوه

🇨🇿 deformovaný

🇸🇰 deformovaný

🇨🇳 变形的

🇸🇮 deformiran

🇮🇸 afmyndaður

🇰🇿 деформацияланған

🇬🇪 დეფორმირებული

🇦🇿 deformasiyalı

🇲🇽 deformado