Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having an unnatural or distorted shape; deformed: Describes something that is badly formed, not having the normal or intended shape, often to the point of being ugly or dysfunctional.

Usage

• The adjective "misshapen" is used to describe the physical form of an object, body part, or creature. It implies a deviation from the proper, natural, or expected form, usually due to a flaw, accident, or inherent defect. It carries a negative connotation of being unsightly or imperfect.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The potter discarded the misshapen vase.
  • Years of arthritis had left her fingers misshapen.
  • They found a misshapen apple at the bottom of the bag.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use: While primarily physical, "misshapen" can be used figuratively to describe abstract things that are distorted or malformed.
  • The treaty was a misshapen compromise that pleased no one.
• "Misshapenness" (noun): The state or quality of being misshapen.
  • The misshapenness of the sculpture was intentional, representing decay.

Variants and Related Words

• Deformed (adj.): Often used interchangeably with "misshapen," but can imply a more severe or congenital abnormality.
• Malformed (adj.): Specifically suggests faulty formation, often from birth or development.
• Distorted (adj.): Twisted out of the natural or original shape; can also apply to non-physical things like truth or sound.
• Ill-shapen (adj.): An archaic or less common variant with the same meaning.

Synonyms

• Deformed
• Malformed
• Distorted
• Contorted
• Crooked
• Warped

Antonyms

• Well-formed
• Shapely
• Symmetrical
• Perfect
• Regular

Idioms and Phrases

• A misshapen lump: A common descriptive phrase emphasizing a complete lack of recognizable form.
  • The melted plastic was just a misshapen lump.

Adjective

1. so badly formed or out of shape as to be ugly
   • deformed thalidomide babies
   • his poor distorted limbs
   • an ill-shapen vase
   • a limp caused by a malformed foot
   • misshapen old fingers