Defect vs. Deformity — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 21, 2024
"Defect" refers to an imperfection or fault that hinders normal function, applicable broadly, whereas "Deformity" specifically describes a permanent physical condition that deviates from the normal shape.
Difference Between Defect and Deformity
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Defect" is a general term that refers to any imperfection or fault, which may affect the functionality or appearance of something or someone. On the other hand, "deformity" specifically pertains to an abnormal physical condition, often irreversible, affecting the structure or shape of a part of the body.
A "defect" can be present in objects, processes, or living organisms, indicating a wide range of applications, from manufacturing to genetics. Whereas "deformity" is primarily used in medical and biological contexts, describing abnormalities in living organisms, especially humans and animals.
"Defect" often implies a deviation from quality standards or expectations that could potentially be corrected or mitigated. In contrast, "deformity" usually refers to a permanent condition, typically not correctable without medical intervention.
The term "defect" can be applied to non-physical attributes, such as character flaws or software bugs. Conversely, "deformity" is almost exclusively used to describe physical anomalies and is rarely applicable outside this scope.
While a "defect" can impact the function or performance of an item or organism, leading to potential failure or inadequacy, a "deformity" mainly affects appearance and sometimes physical capabilities, without necessarily impairing other functions.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
An imperfection or fault in something.
A permanent physical condition deviating from the norm.
Contexts
Broad (objects, systems, organisms)
Mainly medical (physical condition of organisms)
Permanence
Potentially correctable
Often permanent and requires medical intervention
Scope
Includes non-physical aspects
Strictly physical anomalies
Impact
Affects functionality or performance
Affects physical appearance and sometimes capability
Compare with Definitions
Defect
A shortcoming, imperfection, or lack.
The sculpture had a small defect on its base.
Deformity
A disfigurement or distortion in shape or appearance.
A congenital deformity affected his hand.
Defect
A fault or flaw in a system or process.
They found a serious defect in the software.
Deformity
A condition that deviates from the normal shape or structure in biology.
The deformity in the tree was caused by a fungal infection.
Defect
A failure to meet necessary standards.
The car was recalled due to a brake defect.
Deformity
An irregularity in physical form or structure.
The surgeon specialized in correcting facial deformities.
Defect
A genetic abnormality that can cause disease or abnormal physical development.
The defect in the gene is responsible for the condition.
Deformity
An abnormal physical condition due to a malformation.
The x-ray showed a deformity in her spine.
Defect
A personal flaw or deficiency.
His greatest defect was his inability to listen to others.
Deformity
A permanent physical blemish or distortion.
The accident left him with a slight deformity.
Defect
Failing; fault; imperfection, whether physical or moral; blemish; as, a defect in the ear or eye; a defect in timber or iron; a defect of memory or judgment.
Trust not yourself; but, your defects to know,Make use of every friend - and every foe.
Among boys little tenderness is shown to personal defects.
Deformity
A deformity, dysmorphism, or dysmorphic feature is a major abnormality in the shape of a body part or organ compared to the normal shape of that part.
Defect
An imperfection or lack that causes inadequacy or failure; a shortcoming or deficiency.
Deformity
The state of being deformed.
Defect
To disown allegiance to one's country and take up residence in another
A Soviet citizen who defected to Israel.
Deformity
A bodily malformation, distortion, or disfigurement.
Defect
To abandon a position or association, often to join an opposing group
Defected from the party over the issue of free trade.
Deformity
A deformed person or thing.
Defect
A fault or malfunction.
A defect in the ear or eye; a defect in timber or iron; a defect of memory or judgment
Deformity
Gross ugliness or distortion.
Defect
The quantity or amount by which anything falls short.
Deformity
The state of being deformed.
Defect
(math) A part by which a figure or quantity is wanting or deficient.
Deformity
An ugly or misshapen feature or characteristic.
Defect
(intransitive) To abandon or turn against; to cease or change one's loyalty, especially from a military organisation or political party.
Deformity
The state of being deformed; want of proper form or symmetry; any unnatural form or shape; distortion; irregularity of shape or features; ugliness.
To make an envious mountain on my back,Where sits deformity to mock my body.
Defect
(military) To desert one's army, to flee from combat.
Deformity
Anything that destroys beauty, grace, or propriety; irregularity; absurdity; gross deviation from order or the established laws of propriety; as, deformity in an edifice; deformity of character.
Confounded, that her Maker's eyesShould look so near upon her foul deformities.
Defect
(military) To join the enemy army.
Deformity
An affliction in which some part of the body is misshapen or malformed
Defect
(law) To flee one's country and seek asylum.
Deformity
An appearance that has been spoiled or is misshapen;
There were distinguishing disfigurements on the suspect's back
Suffering from facial disfiguration
Defect
Want or absence of something necessary for completeness or perfection; deficiency; - opposed to superfluity.
Errors have been corrected, and defects supplied.
Defect
To fail; to become deficient.
Defect
To abandon one country or faction, and join another.
Defect
To injure; to damage.
Defect
An imperfection in a bodily system;
Visual defects
This device permits detection of defects in the lungs
Defect
A failing or deficiency;
That interpretation is an unfortunate defect of our lack of information
Defect
An imperfection in a device or machine;
If there are any defects you should send it back to the manufacturer
Defect
A mark or flaw that spoils the appearance of something (especially on a person's body);
A facial blemish
Defect
Desert (a cause, a country or an army), often in order to join the opposing cause, country, or army;
If soldiers deserted Hitler's army, they were shot
Common Curiosities
What is a defect
A defect is an imperfection or fault that may affect the functionality or appearance of something.
Can defects be corrected
Yes, defects often have the potential to be corrected or mitigated.
Are deformities always permanent
Deformities are typically permanent, though some can be corrected or improved with medical intervention.
Can a defect also be a deformity
Yes, if the defect involves a physical anomaly that affects the shape or structure of the body, it can also be considered a deformity.
What is a deformity
A deformity is a permanent physical condition that deviates from the normal shape or structure.
What causes deformities
Deformities can be caused by genetic factors, environmental influences, or injuries.
Is a software defect the same as a software deformity
No, software defects refer to errors or bugs in the code, and the term deformity is not used in this context.
What are some examples of deformities
Examples include congenital limb deformities, facial asymmetry, or spinal deformities.
How are defects identified
Defects can be identified through quality control, testing, or feedback in various fields.
How do deformities affect individuals
Deformities can affect an individual's appearance, self-esteem, and physical capabilities.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
