# anomalous

/əˈnɑməɫəs/ (US) · /ɐnˈɒmələs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/anomalous
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

different from what is normal or expected. You use this to describe something that stands out because it does not fit with the rest of a group.

For teachers: deviating from what is standard, normal, or expected. Often used to describe data points or physical objects that do not conform to a general pattern.

## Examples

- The anomalous result made the scientists look at their data again.
- The researcher noted an anomalous spike in temperature that did not match the rest of the month's weather patterns.
- While the majority of the samples followed the expected distribution, the anomalous data point suggested a fundamental flaw in the initial hypothesis regarding the chemical reaction.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.