First Known Use: 1655
Dictionary
anomalous
adjective anom·a·lous \ə-ˈnä-mə-ləs\
: not expected or usual
Full Definition of ANOMALOUS
2
a : of uncertain nature or classification b : marked by incongruity or contradiction : paradoxical
— anom·a·lous·ly adverb
— anom·a·lous·ness noun
See anomalous defined for English-language learners
See anomalous defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of ANOMALOUS
Late Latin anomalus, from Greek anōmalos, literally, uneven, from a- + homalos even, from homos same — more at same
Related to ANOMALOUS
- Synonyms
- aberrant, aberrated, abnormal, exceptional, atypical, especial, exceeding, extraordinaire, extraordinary, freak, odd, peculiar, phenomenal, preternatural, rare, singular, uncommon, uncustomary, unique, unusual, unwonted
- Antonyms
- common, customary, normal, ordinary, typical, unexceptional, unextraordinary, usual
Synonym Discussion of ANOMALOUS
irregular, anomalous, unnatural mean not conforming to rule, law, or custom. irregular implies not conforming to a law or regulation imposed for the sake of uniformity in method, practice, or conduct <concerned about his irregular behavior>. anomalous implies not conforming to what might be expected because of the class or type to which it belongs or the laws that govern its existence <her drive made her an anomalous figure in a sleepy organization>. unnatural suggests what is contrary to nature or to principles or standards felt to be essential to the well-being of civilized society <prisoners treated with unnatural cruelty>.
ANOMALOUSLY Defined for Kids
anomalous
adjective anom·a·lous \ə-ˈnä-mə-ləs\
Definition of ANOMALOUS for Kids
: not regular or usual <anomalous test results>
Medical Dictionary
anomalous
adjective anom·a·lous \ə-ˈnäm-ə-ləs\
Medical Definition of ANOMALOUS
: deviating from normal <anomalous development> <anomalous pulmonary venous drainage—Physicians' Current Procedural Terminology>; specifically : having abnormal vision with respect to a particular color but not color-blind <she was almost red anomalous—Nature>
Learn More About ANOMALOUS
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: anomalous dispersionPrevious Word in the Dictionary: AnomalopteryxAll Words Near: anomalous
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up anomalous? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).