dysfunction

American  

[dis-fuhngk-shuhn] / dɪsˈfʌŋk ʃən /

noun

1. Medicine/Medical. malfunctioning, as of an organ or structure of the body.

2. any malfunctioning part or element.

   the dysfunctions of the country's economy.

3. Sociology. a consequence of a social practice or behavior pattern that undermines the stability of a social system.

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dysfunction British  

/ dɪsˈfʌŋkʃən /

noun

1. med any disturbance or abnormality in the function of an organ or part

2. (esp of a family) failure to show the characteristics or fulfil the purposes accepted as normal or beneficial

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Other Word Forms

• dysfunctional adjective

Etymology

Origin of dysfunction

First recorded in 1915–20; dys- + function

Example Sentences

"It's not laziness, it's the executive dysfunction that makes it difficult... People have trouble focusing their attention and keeping it sustained long enough to complete these tasks," she said.

From BBC

The Beltway’s institutional dysfunction points to a larger failure: a shortage of pro-growth ideas.

From The Wall Street Journal

Then, too, there’s greater risk of dysfunction with more people, each with quirks, needs and expectations.

From The Wall Street Journal

Throughout its episode “Succession” hits an array of thematic notes beyond the obvious concerning the Roys’ dysfunction and the callousness of the wealthy.

From Salon

As a result, dysfunction at the agency has reached the point where it even poses a threat to employers with charges against them before the agency.

From Salon