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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
Studies show a higher risk of cancer, birth defects, and heart disease among people who live near mining operations.
—Dan Kaufman, The New Yorker, 9 May 2024
This puts them at higher risk of having children born with birth defects of the brain and spinal cord, most commonly spina bifida and anencephaly.
—Ana B. Ibarra, The Mercury News, 15 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for birth defect
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'birth defect.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
circa 1864, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near birth defect
Cite this Entry
“Birth defect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/birth%20defect. Accessed 29 May. 2024.
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
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