birth defect

noun

: a physical or biochemical defect that is present at birth and may be inherited or environmentally induced

Examples of birth defect in a Sentence

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.

Currently, alcohol labels carry warnings related to birth defects and impairments when operating machinery but do not address cancer risks. —

Michael D. Carroll and Amir Daftari, Newsweek, 3 Jan. 2025 In fact, too much vitamin A can create headaches, liver damage, reduce bone strength, and even cause birth defects. —

Joshua Rapp Learn, Discover Magazine, 30 Dec. 2024 The company’s research had already linked exposure to birth defects, cancer and more. —

Hiroko Tabuchi, New York Times, 27 Dec. 2024 Share [Findings] The Journal of Pediatric Genetics retracted a study on Islamic beliefs concerning the possible supernatural causes of birth defects on the grounds that the research lacked a scientific basis. —

Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harper's Magazine, 22 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for birth defect

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1864, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of birth defect was circa 1864

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Birth defect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/birth%20defect. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.

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Kids Definition

birth defect

noun

: a serious defect (as in physical or mental function) that is present at birth and is inherited or caused by something that happens or exists in the environment

Medical Definition

birth defect

noun

: a physical or biochemical defect (as cleft palate, phenylketonuria, or Down syndrome) that is present at birth and may be inherited or environmentally induced