dwarfism

noun

dwarf·​ism ˈdwȯr-ˌfi-zəm How to pronounce dwarfism (audio)
: a condition of stunted growth
especially : a condition (such as achondroplasia) of people and animals marked by unusually small size or short stature

Examples of dwarfism in a Sentence

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.
Michele Sullivan, former president of the Caterpillar Foundation, was born with a rare form of dwarfism that created many challenges in her daily life. — Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025 The Disney remake has also been called out by Wicked actor Peter Dinklage, who was born with a form of dwarfism called achondroplasia. — Sharareh Drury, People.com, 26 Feb. 2025 It’s already generated some controversy Particularly amongst members of the dwarfism community. — Radhika Seth, Vogue, 21 Feb. 2025 Natalia has rare dwarfism condition known as spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita. — Lisa Respers France, CNN, 20 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dwarfism

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dwarfism was in 1833

Rhymes for dwarfism

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“Dwarfism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dwarfism. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

dwarfism

noun
dwarf·​ism ˈdwȯr-ˌfiz-əm How to pronounce dwarfism (audio)
: a condition of stunted growth
especially : a condition (as achondroplasia) marked by unusually small size or short stature

More from Merriam-Webster on dwarfism

Nglish: Translation of dwarfism for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about dwarfism

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