# deformed

/dɪˈfɔɹmd/ (US) · /dɪfˈɔːmd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

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

## Definition

having a shape that is not natural or normal because of an injury, a birth condition, or damage.

For teachers: having a distorted or misshapen physical form, typically resulting from congenital conditions, injury, or structural stress. Often used to describe physical objects or biological structures that have lost their original symmetry.

## Examples

- The heat left the plastic bottle deformed and leaking.
- The tree grew in a deformed shape because of the constant high winds on the cliffside.
- Engineers examined the deformed steel beams to determine whether the structural failure was caused by extreme heat or a sudden mechanical impact.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used as a participial adjective; can appear both before a noun or after a linking verb like 'become' or 'remain'.

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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.