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
Vancouver will also be hoping that this is addition by subtraction as far as cleaning up the locker room dysfunction and public rift between Miller and Elias Pettersson.
—
Corey Pronman, The Athletic, 1 Feb. 2025
While its exact cause is unclear, experts believe immune system dysfunction and an imbalance in the skin and gut microbiomes likely play a role in its development.
—Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 30 Jan. 2025
When a duty or activity isn’t exciting, that executive dysfunction kicks in.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN, 27 Jan. 2025
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that often causes tremors, motor dysfunction, stiff limbs and gait and balance issues, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.
—Elizabeth Hernandez, The Denver Post, 27 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for dysfunction 
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Corey Pronman, The Athletic, 1 Feb. 2025
While its exact cause is unclear, experts believe immune system dysfunction and an imbalance in the skin and gut microbiomes likely play a role in its development.
—Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 30 Jan. 2025
When a duty or activity isn’t exciting, that executive dysfunction kicks in.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN, 27 Jan. 2025
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that often causes tremors, motor dysfunction, stiff limbs and gait and balance issues, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.
—Elizabeth Hernandez, The Denver Post, 27 Jan. 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 3 Feb. 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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