malformation

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   an abnormal shape or structure, especially one arising during bodily development

   The scan revealed a congenital malformation of the heart.

2. 2
   noun

   the faulty or abnormal formation of something

   Hyde gave an impression of deformity without any identifiable malformation.

From mal-, 'badly or abnormally,' + formation. The medical sense names an abnormality produced as a body part develops; the broader sense applies the same idea to anything formed incorrectly.

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