abnormality

noun

ab·​nor·​mal·​i·​ty ˌab-nər-ˈma-lə-tē 

-(ˌ)nȯr-

plural abnormalities

1

: something abnormal

2

: the quality or state of being abnormal

Synonyms

• anomaly
• freak
• monster
• monstrosity

Examples of abnormality in a Sentence

The test results showed several genetic abnormalities.

There was some abnormality in his vision.

Recent Examples on the Web

Studies suggest that mosaicism is common in embryos, and that even those with multiple chromosomal abnormalities can result in healthy, full-term pregnancies—albeit less often than euploid embryos. —Jamie Ducharme, TIME, 6 Mar. 2025

It is caused by an abnormality in a gene called PLA2G6. —Taylor Grothe, Parents, 28 Feb. 2025

Multiple reports credit Fuller with the discovery of two brain abnormalities that are hallmark indicators of Alzheimer’s disease: neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid plaques. —Kristen Rogers, CNN, 27 Feb. 2025

People with thyroid abnormalities, for example, may feel too hot or too cold, constipated, or anxious and jittery. —Julia Ries, Outside Online, 27 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

abnormal entry 1 + -ity

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for abnormality

• cardinality
• commonality
• communality
• cordiality
• corporeality
• criminality
• criticality
• functionality
• generality
• geniality
• hospitality
• illegality

Kids Definition

abnormality

noun

ab·​nor·​mal·​i·​ty ˌab-nər-ˈmal-ət-ē 

-(ˌ)nȯr-

plural abnormalities

1

: the state of being abnormal

2

: something abnormal

Medical Definition

abnormality

noun

ab·​nor·​mal·​i·​ty ˌab-nər-ˈmal-ət-ē, -(ˌ)nȯr- 

plural abnormalities

1

: the quality or state of being abnormal

2

: something abnormal

brain-wave abnormalities