Aberrationsomething unusual that differs from what is normal or expected is a noun that usually means something unusual that differs from what is normal or expected. In technical contexts, it can also refer to an opticalrelating to light, vision, or how lenses and mirrors work flaw in a lens or mirror, or to a mental disturbancea disruption of normal mental functioning or calm.
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Aberration Meaning
something unusual that departs from what is normal
Part of speech: noun
Definition: a state or condition markedly different from the norm
Example: The sudden heat wave was an aberration in an otherwise mild spring.
Synonyms for this meaning:
- aberrance — A close match for the sense of departing from the normal pattern.
- aberrancy — Works for an unusual or deviant condition.
- deviance — Can fit this sense, though it often has stronger social or behavioral implications.
The section above was reviewed by a man
Other Meanings of Aberration
Meaning 2
a flaw in a lens or mirror that makes the image unclear or distorted
Part of speech: noun
Definition: an optical phenomenon resulting from the failure of a lens or mirror to produce a good image
Example: The telescope image was blurred by an optical aberration.
Synonyms for this meaning:
- distortion — Can work in optics, but it is broader and not always a precise substitute.
- optical aberration — A direct technical synonym for this sense.
Meaning 3
a mental disturbance or abnormal condition
Part of speech: noun
Definition: a disorder in one’s mental state
Example: In older medical writing, the term could refer to an aberration of the mind.
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Aberration Synonyms
Similar Meaning
- aberrance
- aberrancy
- deviance
optical flaw in a lens or mirror
- distortion
- optical aberration
The section above was reviewed by a man
Common Mistakes
- Do not use aberration for any ordinary mistake; it usually means something that is unusual, abnormal, or technically flawed.
- Do not mix the figurative sense (‘something unusual’) with the optical sense (‘lens or mirror flaw’).
The section above was reviewed by a man
Frequently Asked Questions
What does aberration mean?
Aberration usually means something that differs from the normal pattern. It can also refer to an optical defect in a lens or mirror, or to a mental disorder in older usage.
What are the synonyms of aberration?
For the main sense, common synonyms include aberrance, aberrancy, and deviance. For the optical sense, distortion and optical aberration are the closest matches.
Is aberration a negative word?
Often it suggests that something is abnormal or undesired, but the exact tone depends on context. In science, it can be a neutral technical term.
The section above was reviewed by a man
