Associations to the word «Aberration»

Wiktionary

ABERRATION, noun. The act of wandering; deviation from truth, moral rectitude; abnormal; divergence from the straight, correct, proper, normal, or from the natural state. [Late 16th century.]
ABERRATION, noun. (optics) The convergence to different foci, by a lens or mirror, of rays of light emanating from one and the same point, or the deviation of such rays from a single focus; a defect in a focusing mechanism that prevents the intended focal point. [Mid 18th century.]
ABERRATION, noun. (astronomy) A small periodical change of position in the stars and other heavenly bodies, due to the combined effect of the motion of light and the motion of the observer. [Mid 18th century.]
ABERRATION, noun. A partial alienation of reason. [Early 19th century.]
ABERRATION, noun. A mental disorder, especially one of a minor or temporary character. [Early 19th century.]
ABERRATION, noun. (zoology) (botany) Atypical development or structure; deviation from the normal type; an aberrant organ. [Mid 19th century.]
ABERRATION, noun. (medicine) A deviation of a tissue, organ or mental functions from what is considered to be within the normal range.

Dictionary definition

ABERRATION, noun. A state or condition markedly different from the norm.
ABERRATION, noun. A disorder in one's mental state.
ABERRATION, noun. An optical phenomenon resulting from the failure of a lens or mirror to produce a good image.

Wise words

Words, words, words! They shut one off from the universe. Three quarters of the time one's never in contact with things, only with the beastly words that stand for them.
Aldous Huxley