1. something that differs from what is normal or expected; an unusual or atypical occurrence
2. a temporary change from typical or desirable behavior
3. a defect in an optical system that causes distortion of an image
Usage: optics; technical

Examples

• The warm weather in December was a strange aberration for this region.
• His rude behavior was completely out of character—just an aberration.
• The test results showed one aberration that didn’t fit the expected pattern.
• Statistical aberrations in the data suggested measurement errors.
• The telescope’s lens aberration made the stars appear blurry.
• Her moment of anger was an aberration; she’s usually very calm.
• The company’s poor performance last quarter was an aberration in an otherwise successful year.