dysfunction
noun
dys·func·tion
(ˌ)dis-ˈfəŋ(k)-shən 
variants
or less commonly disfunction
1
: impaired or abnormal functioning
gastrointestinal dysfunction
2
: abnormal or unhealthy interpersonal behavior or interaction within a group
family dysfunction
Examples of dysfunction in a Sentence
The disease causes gastrointestinal dysfunctions.
Recent Examples on the Web
It’s estimated that one in three Americans has a problematic amount of fat in their livers, which can ultimately result in scarring and organ dysfunction.
—
San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 May 2024
Pelvic floor dysfunction: People with pelvic floor dysfunction have impaired muscular control or coordination of the pelvic floor and/or abdominal muscles during a bowel movement, which can lead to difficulty going to the bathroom.
—Suzie Finkel Ms, Rd, Cdn, Health, 26 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for dysfunction 
San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 May 2024
Pelvic floor dysfunction: People with pelvic floor dysfunction have impaired muscular control or coordination of the pelvic floor and/or abdominal muscles during a bowel movement, which can lead to difficulty going to the bathroom.
—Suzie Finkel Ms, Rd, Cdn, Health, 26 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for dysfunction
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dysfunction.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Cite this Entry
“Dysfunction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dysfunction. Accessed 31 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
dysfunction
noun
dys·func·tion
dis-ˈfəŋ(k)-shən
: impaired or abnormal functioning
liver dysfunction
Medical Definition
dysfunction
noun
dys·func·tion
variants
also disfunction
: impaired or abnormal functioning (as of an organ of the body) see minimal brain dysfunction
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