birth defect

noun

: a physical or biochemical defect that is present at birth and may be inherited or environmentally induced

Examples of birth defect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Share [Findings] The Journal of Pediatric Genetics retracted a study on Islamic beliefs concerning the possible supernatural causes of birth defects on the grounds that the research lacked a scientific basis. Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harper's Magazine, 2 Jan. 2025 Exposure to certain types of PFAS has been linked to health problems including cancer, birth defects, liver damage and immune system disorders. Alejandra Martinez, Austin American-Statesman, 30 Dec. 2024 For example, in the 1980s the state health department concluded that a cluster of birth defects and miscarriages in a San Jose neighborhood was linked to organic solvent contamination from the local chip plant. Arlene Blum, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024 Recent research has shown a newborn’s fat mass at birth is associated with obesity as a preschooler, while other studies have shown the risk of major birth defects increases with an expectant mother’s weight. Sandee Lamotte, CNN, 22 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for birth defect 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1864, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of birth defect was circa 1864

Dictionary Entries Near birth defect

Cite this Entry

“Birth defect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/birth%20defect. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

birth defect

noun
: a serious defect (as in physical or mental function) that is present at birth and is inherited or caused by something that happens or exists in the environment

Medical Definition

birth defect

noun
: a physical or biochemical defect (as cleft palate, phenylketonuria, or Down syndrome) that is present at birth and may be inherited or environmentally induced
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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