dysfunction
Dysfunction (noun) means a failure to work properly, especially in an organ, relationship, or system. Example: “The therapist helped the family address years of dysfunction.”
How to use dysfunction
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething — a body part, a relationship, an organisation — not working the way it should.
Word forms
dysfunctioned past tense, dysfunctions plural, dysfunctions singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The therapist helped the family address years of _____.
Etymology
Built from the prefix "dys-" (bad, abnormal) attached to "function".
Synonyms
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Rhymes for dysfunction
Frequently asked questions
What does “dysfunction” mean?
The word “dysfunction” means a failure to work properly, especially in an organ, relationship, or system. In plain terms, something — a body part, a relationship, an organisation — not working the way it should.
How do you pronounce “dysfunction”?
“Dysfunction” is pronounced dihs-FUHNGK-shuhn (/dɪsˈfʌŋk.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “dysfunction” in a sentence?
Here is “dysfunction” used in a sentence: “The therapist helped the family address years of dysfunction.”
What part of speech is “dysfunction”?
“Dysfunction” is a noun.
Is “dysfunction” a common word?
“Dysfunction” is an uncommon word in modern English.