ab·nor·mal
(ˌ)ab-ˈnȯr-məl 
əb-
: deviating from the normal or average
a person with abnormal [=exceptional] strength
abnormal powers of concentration
often
: unusual in an unwelcome or problematic way
abnormal behavior
abnormal test results
: an abnormal person
Synonyms
Examples of abnormal in a Sentence
Adjective
The results of the blood test were abnormal.
a completely abnormal school day, because half of the kids were out sick
Recent Examples on the Web
Chris Waugh, The Athletic, 31 Dec. 2024
Then, in rare cases—about 1% of those with HCM —the disease is associated with sudden cardiac death due to abnormal heart rhythms that result in the heart ceasing to beat effectively.
—Perri Ormont Blumberg, TIME, 30 Dec. 2024
Terry Blain Special To The Star Tribune, Star Tribune, 5 Aug. 2020
Welcome to the new abnormal.
—Seth Borenstein, Anchorage Daily News, 9 Dec. 2022
See all Example Sentences for abnormal 
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Adjective
In a poll — admittedly unscientific — conducted on X during the three hours leading towards kick-off, the abnormal, uncomfortable and unfamiliar position Newcastle fans found themselves in was evident.
—Chris Waugh, The Athletic, 31 Dec. 2024
Then, in rare cases—about 1% of those with HCM —the disease is associated with sudden cardiac death due to abnormal heart rhythms that result in the heart ceasing to beat effectively.
—Perri Ormont Blumberg, TIME, 30 Dec. 2024
Noun
Being there on Tuesday felt like the new abnormal.
—Terry Blain Special To The Star Tribune, Star Tribune, 5 Aug. 2020
Welcome to the new abnormal.
—Seth Borenstein, Anchorage Daily News, 9 Dec. 2022
See all Example Sentences for abnormal
Dictionary Entries Near abnormal
Cite this Entry
“Abnormal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/abnormal. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
abnormal
1 of 2 adjective
ab·nor·mal
(ˈ)ab-ˈnȯr-məl
: deviating from the normal, average, or expected
abnormal development
results of the Pap smear were abnormal
abnormal actions departing from accepted standards of social behavior
abnormal
2 of 2 noun
: an abnormal person
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