deformation

noun

de·​for·​ma·​tion ˌdē-ˌfȯr-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce deformation (audio) ˌde-fər- How to pronounce deformation (audio)
Synonyms of deformationnext
1
: alteration of form or shape
also : the product of such alteration
2
: the action of deforming : the state of being deformed
3
: change for the worse
deformational
ˌdē-ˌfȯr-ˈmā-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce deformation (audio)
ˌde-fər-
adjective

Synonyms

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Examples of deformation in a Sentence

the catastrophic deformation of the steel girders under the enormous weight of the bridge
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.
Ground deformation and collapse of snow and ice into the summit crater lake that formed during the unrest also continues, scientists said. — Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 13 Mar. 2025 Elevated earthquake activity and ground deformation continue. — Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 13 Mar. 2025 But the researchers found that under the right conditions, the gravitational waves triggered by the quantum foam can sometimes generate exactly the right kind of deformations in space. — Paul Sutter, Space.com, 19 Jan. 2025 Rheology is a branch of physics that deals with the deformation and fluidity of matter. — Leath Tonino, Outside Online, 13 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deformation

Word History

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of deformation was in 1551

Rhymes for deformation

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Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Deformation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deformation. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on deformation

Nglish: Translation of deformation for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about deformation

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