English Lexicon

Dysfunctional

/dɪsˈfʌŋk.ʃən.əl/
adjectiveCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #4500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As adjective
  1. 1

    Not operating normally or properly; impaired in function.

    "The dysfunctional family struggled to communicate effectively."
  2. 2

    Characterized by abnormal or unhealthy behavior or relationships.

    "His dysfunctional behavior made it difficult for him to maintain friendships."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the prefix dys- (meaning 'bad', 'difficult', or 'impaired') combined with functional, originating from Modern Latin functionem and ultimately from Latin fungi (meaning 'to perform'). The term emerged in the mid-20th century, initially popularized in sociology and psychology to describe social structures or psychological patterns failing to fulfill their normal or expected purposes.

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