disordered

adjective

dis·​or·​dered (ˌ)dis-ˈȯr-dərd How to pronounce disordered (audio)
(ˌ)diz-
Synonyms of disorderednext
1
obsolete
a
: morally reprehensible
b
: unruly
2
a
: marked by disorder
a disordered room
b
: not functioning in a normal orderly healthy way
a disordered mind
disorderedly adverb
disorderedness noun

Examples of disordered in a Sentence

The project was in a disordered state. The file was completely disordered.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These materials are key to technologies such as ultrasound, sonar, and high-efficiency sensors, but their complex, disordered structure has remained a mystery for decades. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 30 Apr. 2026 The Augustinian tradition emphasizes fraternity, humility, and reflection on our disordered desires. Peter Wehner, The Atlantic, 27 Apr. 2026 In Maryland, nearly 6% of residents exhibit disordered gambling behavior, up from 4% two years prior, a 2024 study backed by the Maryland Department of Health found. Max Klaver, Miami Herald, 10 Apr. 2026 The New Yorker Consume Me This semi-autobiographical game by director Jenny Jiao Hsia explores her experiences with dieting and disordered eating as an Asian American teenager in the early 2010s, using gameplay mechanics to reflect the emotional and cultural pressures surrounding these issues. Hilary Lewis, HollywoodReporter, 9 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disordered

Word History

First Known Use

1505, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of disordered was in 1505

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Disordered.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disordered. Accessed 3 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

disordered

adjective
dis·​or·​dered
1
: marked by disorder
2
: not functioning in a normal orderly healthy way

Medical Definition

disordered

adjective
dis·​or·​dered
1
: not functioning in a normal orderly healthy way
disordered bodily functions
2
: mentally unbalanced
a disordered patient
a disordered mind

More from Merriam-Webster on disordered

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster