adj
anomalous
uh-NO-muh-luhs
Anomalous (adj) means Different from what is normal or expected; not fitting the usual pattern. Example: “The scientists noticed an anomalous spike in temperature readings.”
adj
1
Different from what is normal or expected; not fitting the usual pattern.
"The scientists noticed an anomalous spike in temperature readings."
"His anomalous behaviour worried his colleagues."
How to use anomalous
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishStanding out because it doesn't match the normal pattern.
When to use it
Fairly formal; common in scientific and technical writing.
Common pairings
anomalous result
anomalous behaviour
statistically anomalous
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more anomalous
- Superlative
- most anomalous
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The scientists noticed an _____ spike in temperature readings.
Etymology
From Late Latin anomalos, from Ancient Greek anomalos, "uneven, irregular."
Related words
Rhymes for anomalous
See all rhymes for anomalous →Frequently asked questions
What does “anomalous” mean?
The word “anomalous” means different from what is normal or expected; not fitting the usual pattern. In plain terms, standing out because it doesn't match the normal pattern.
How do you pronounce “anomalous”?
“Anomalous” is pronounced uh-NO-muh-luhs (/əˈnɑmələs/ in IPA).
How do you use “anomalous” in a sentence?
Here is “anomalous” used in a sentence: “The scientists noticed an anomalous spike in temperature readings.”
What part of speech is “anomalous”?
“Anomalous” is an adjective.
Where does the word “anomalous” come from?
The word “anomalous” comes from Ancient Greek. From Late Latin anomalos, from Ancient Greek anomalos, "uneven, irregular.".
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