Dysmorphism

/dɪsˈmɔrfɪzəm/ noun

Definition

A medical or biological condition characterized by abnormal development or malformation of body structures.

Etymology

From Greek 'dys-' (bad, abnormal) + 'morphism' (from 'morphe' meaning form or shape). This term entered medical vocabulary to describe developmental abnormalities and congenital malformations.

Kelly Says

Down syndrome, cleft palate, and other congenital conditions involve dysmorphism—it describes the physical differences that show up when development doesn't follow the typical pattern.

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