The term “abnormal” is often used to describe something that is not normal or deviates from what is considered typical or expected. It can be applied to a wide range of things, from human behavior to physical characteristics, and is often used in medical and psychological contexts. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of abnormal, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Abnormal can be defined as something that is not typical, usual, or expected. It can also refer to something that is irregular, abnormal, or outside the norm. In medical and psychological contexts, abnormal is often used to describe behavior, thoughts, or emotions that deviate from what is considered normal or healthy.
Origin
The word “abnormal” comes from the Latin word “abnormalis”, which means “away from the rule”. The word was first used in English in the 17th century to describe something that was not in accordance with the usual or expected standard.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, abnormal means “deviating from what is normal or usual, typically in a way that is undesirable or worrying.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “deviating from the normal or average”. The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “different from what is usual or expected, especially in a way that is worrying, harmful, or not wanted.”
Associations
Abnormal is often associated with negative connotations, as it is used to describe something that is not normal or healthy. It is often used in medical and psychological contexts to describe conditions or behaviors that are considered abnormal or pathological.
Synonyms
Synonyms of abnormal include unusual, atypical, irregular, peculiar, odd, strange, aberrant, deviant, and anomalous.
Antonyms
Antonyms of abnormal include normal, usual, typical, regular, standard, and conventional.
The same root words
The same root words as abnormal include abnormally, abnormality, and abnormalness.
Example Sentences
- His behavior was considered abnormal by his peers.
- The test results showed abnormal levels of cholesterol in his blood.
- The child’s speech development was considered abnormal for his age.
- The weather patterns this year have been abnormal compared to previous years.
- The doctor diagnosed the patient with an abnormal heart rhythm.