anomaly
Anomaly (noun) means something that deviates from what is normal or expected; an irregularity. Example: “The auditors flagged an anomaly in the company's accounts.”
How to use anomaly
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething odd or unexpected that doesn't fit the usual pattern.
Word forms
anomalies plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The auditors flagged an _____ in the company's accounts.
Etymology
From Latin anomalia, from Ancient Greek anomalia ("irregularity"), from anomalos ("uneven"), the opposite of homalos ("even, level").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for anomaly
See all rhymes for anomaly →Frequently asked questions
What does “anomaly” mean?
The word “anomaly” means something that deviates from what is normal or expected; an irregularity. In plain terms, something odd or unexpected that doesn't fit the usual pattern.
How do you pronounce “anomaly”?
“Anomaly” is pronounced uh-NOM-uh-lih (/əˈnɑ.mə.li/ in IPA).
How do you use “anomaly” in a sentence?
Here is “anomaly” used in a sentence: “The auditors flagged an anomaly in the company's accounts.”
What is another word for “anomaly”?
Words with a similar meaning to “anomaly” include aberrant, abnormality, deviance, deviant, freak and farlie.
What part of speech is “anomaly”?
“Anomaly” is a noun.
Where does the word “anomaly” come from?
The word “anomaly” comes from Ancient Greek. From Latin anomalia, from Ancient Greek anomalia ("irregularity"), from anomalos ("uneven"), the opposite of homalos ("even, level").
Is “anomaly” a common word?
“Anomaly” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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