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
When no one is held accountable, dysfunction becomes the norm.
—
Maren Perry, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025
Micro-Walks Also Help Support Health Goals A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weaker muscles, hormonal imbalances, immune system dysfunction, and inflammation.
—Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 29 July 2025
Contemporary American politics is a study in dysfunction and partisanship, but the aftermath of the Western Maryland floods reminds us that hope for a better future isn’t lost.
—Colin Pascal, Baltimore Sun, 26 July 2025
If The Iron Claw chronicled the dysfunction and anguish of a wrestling-mad family, Fighting captured the warmth and joy.
—Tim Grierson, Vulture, 25 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for dysfunction
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Maren Perry, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025
Micro-Walks Also Help Support Health Goals A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weaker muscles, hormonal imbalances, immune system dysfunction, and inflammation.
—Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 29 July 2025
Contemporary American politics is a study in dysfunction and partisanship, but the aftermath of the Western Maryland floods reminds us that hope for a better future isn’t lost.
—Colin Pascal, Baltimore Sun, 26 July 2025
If The Iron Claw chronicled the dysfunction and anguish of a wrestling-mad family, Fighting captured the warmth and joy.
—Tim Grierson, Vulture, 25 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for dysfunction
Cite this Entry
“Dysfunction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dysfunction. Accessed 2 Aug. 2025.
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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