aberrant
adj. C1 Advanced US //æˈbɛɹənt// UK //ɐbˈɛɹənt// aber·rant
adj. describing something that is very different from what is normal or expected. In science, it often refers to a physical trait that is not typical for a species.
adj. deviating from what is normal, usual, or expected. In a biological context, it describes a physical or genetic trait that is atypical for a species or population.
The plant has an aberrant shape compared to its neighbors.
Scientists noted the aberrant behavior of the birds during the unusually cold winter months.
The discovery of an aberrant chromosome in the sample suggested a genetic mutation that had not been previously documented in the species.
From Latin aberrāns, present active participle of aberrō (“go astray; err”), from ab (“from”) + errō (“to wander”). See aberr.