abnormal

Definitions

ab- (away from) + norm (standard) + -al = 'measured away from the standard.' Picture wood that won't sit square against the carpenter's tool — crooked, off-true. That image of failing to line up with the norm became 'not normal, deviating.'

Example Sentences

• 1.

  The scan revealed an abnormal growth that needed further testing.

• 2.

  There was nothing abnormal about his behavior that morning.

• 3.

  Abnormally high temperatures are becoming more common each summer.

Easily Confused

abnormal vs unusual — both mean 'not the usual,' but abnormal often signals something wrong or worrying (abnormal test results, abnormal heartbeat), with a clinical edge. unusual is neutral — just uncommon (an unusual color, an unusual hobby). You'd say an unusual choice, not an abnormal choice.