Dictionary Definition
dysfunction n : (medicine) any disturbance in the
function of an organ or body part [syn: disfunction]
User Contributed Dictionary
English
Etymology
From the Greek dys, meaning bad or abnormal, and the English function.Pronunciation
IPA: /dɪsˈfʌŋk.ʃən/Noun
- A failure to function in an expected or complete manner. Usually refers to a disorder in a bodily organ (e.g. erectile dysfunction), a mental disorder, or the improper behavior of a social group.
Translations
- Finnish: toimintahäiriö
- German: Fehlfunktion
Derived terms
Antonyms
Extensive Definition
Dysfunction can refer to:
- in psychology, an abnormality
- in social psychology, a dysfunctional family or group
- in sociology, a dysfunction (sociology)
- in mechanics, a malfunction
- Dysfunction (album), an album by the rock band Staind
without functioning properly