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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
At their initial appointment, still in September, the doctor determined via ultrasound that one of the babies had a type of birth defect called a cystic hygroma, which can increase the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth or lead to genetic conditions like Down syndrome.
—Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 23 May 2024
In 1964 and 1965, rubella — an epidemic that struck every six to nine years — caused about 11,000 pregnancies to be miscarried, 2,100 newborns to die and 20,000 infants to be born with birth defects.
—Sam Roberts, New York Times, 21 May 2024
This may be a main reason why congenital heart disease is the most common type of birth defect in people, occurring in over 1 in 100 births worldwide.
—Aitor Aguirre, The Conversation, 10 May 2024
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
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 10 Jun. 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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