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Definition of dysfunctional

dysfunctional

/dɪsˈfʌŋk.ʃən.əl/
dys · func · tion · al
Adverb:dysfunctionally
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dysfunctional Lexical Profile

dysfunctional Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Unable to operate normally or effectively, especially regarding a social group, relationship, or organizational system.

Example

"The novel explores the complex dynamics of a dysfunctional family struggling to communicate."

2

Impaired or performing abnormally, particularly with respect to a bodily organ, biological process, or mechanical part.

Example

"Researchers found that dysfunctional cells in the pancreas were failing to produce sufficient insulin."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for dysfunctional

• Nearby Words

dynjandi
dysentery
dysfunction
dysfunctional
dyslexia
dyslexic
dysmorphia

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century by combining the Greek prefix 'dys-' (meaning 'bad' or 'impaired') with 'functional', which derives from the Latin 'functio' ('performance' or 'execution').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Dysfunctional. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/dysfunctional
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