deformation

noun

de·​for·​ma·​tion ˌdē-ˌfȯr-ˈmā-shən  ˌde-fər- 

1

: alteration of form or shape

also : the product of such alteration

2

: the action of deforming : the state of being deformed

3

: change for the worse

deformational

ˌdē-ˌfȯr-ˈmā-sh(ə-)nəl 

ˌde-fər-

adjective

Synonyms of deformation

• distortion
• deformity

Examples of deformation in a Sentence

the catastrophic deformation of the steel girders under the enormous weight of the bridge

Recent Examples on the Web

The addition of the Kevlar core allowed the fiber to resist deformation and store enough energy to double its jumping height, which matches the capabilities of soil-dwelling insects like springtails. —Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 23 Apr. 2026

Reference markers printed directly onto the silicone collar let a tiny onboard camera measure those deformations in real time. —Omar Kardoudi april 23, New Atlas, 23 Apr. 2026

Among Trump’s most consequential legacies has been his deformation of the temperament and disposition of virtually the entire Republican Party. —Peter Wehner, The Atlantic, 23 Mar. 2026

Additionally, the screen uses auto-smoothing flex glass, which is resistant to deformation and better able to recover its original shape. —Eric Zeman, PC Magazine, 17 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for deformation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation