misshapen
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- 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
- 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