Monstrosity

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /mÉ’nˈstɹɒsɪti/

Origin

From Late Latin monstrositas ("monstrousness"), from Latin monstrōsus.

Full definition of monstrosity

Noun

1. A plant or animal showing abnormal development or deformity.
• 1859, Charles Darwin, The Origin of Species, I:Geoffrey St Hilaire's experiments show that unnatural treatment of the embryo causes monstrosities; and monstrosities cannot be separated by any clear line of distinction from mere variations.
2. A monstrous thing, person or act.
3. The state of being monstrous.