# congenital

/kənˈdʒɛnətəɫ/ (US) · /kəndʒˈɛnɪtəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/congenital
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

describing a condition or trait that you have from the moment you are born. It often refers to medical issues, but it can also describe a deep part of someone's character.

For teachers: present from birth, especially regarding a medical condition or a deep-seated character trait. Often used to describe physical defects or chronic habits that seem inherent to an individual.

## Examples

- The doctors treated his congenital heart condition.
- The baby was born with a congenital defect that required immediate surgery to ensure proper development.
- While some scholars argue his dishonesty was a learned survival mechanism, others viewed him as a congenital liar who could not help but distort the truth even in trivial matters.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; frequently collocates with 'defect', 'disorder', or 'liar'.

---

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.