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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
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
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Word History
First Known Use
circa 1864, in the meaning defined above
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
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