dysfunction meaning: definition, etymology and quotations

dysfunction

noun

/dɪsˈfʌŋk.ʃən/

Etymology From dys- + function.

Medicine, Sciences A failure to function in an expected or complete manner. Usually refers to a disorder in a bodily organ (e.g. erectile dysfunction), a mental disorder, or the improper behavior of a social group.

Cerebellar dysfunction is characterized by truncal ataxia, a broad-based stance, dysmetria in which the limbs either overstep (hypermetria) or understep (hypometria), and tremor that is most pronounced when the animal attempts a goal-orientated movement (intention tremor).2004, Johnny D. Hoskins, Geriatrics and Gerontology of the Dog and Cat, →ISBN, page 358:
We next consider the cognification of interpersonal dysfunctions in treating clinical depression.2005, Dwight Evans, Dennis S. Charney, Lydia Lewis, The Physician’s Guide to Depression and Bipolar Disorders, →ISBN, page 69:

Derived terms: cognitive dysfunction syndrome, dysfunctional, dysfunctionally, Eustachian tube dysfunction, immunodysfunction, minimal brain dysfunction, neurodysfunction, post-retinoid sexual dysfunction, post-SSRI sexual dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, temporomandibular joint dysfunction

dysfunction

verb

Etymology From dys- + function.

Biology, Natural sciences Nonstandard To fail to function correctly; to malfunction.