aberrant
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈæbərənt/
KK: /ˈæbərənt/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is different from what is usual or expected, often in a way that is unusual or abnormal.
Example
The scientist noted that the aberrant behavior of the cells could indicate a serious underlying issue.
Conversation
Did you notice how his behavior has been a bit aberrant lately?
Yeah, it's definitely not what we're used to seeing from him.
I wonder what's causing such an aberrant change in him.
Maybe he's just going through something — we should check in on him.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
anomalous
deviant
irregular
Antonyms
normal
typical
usual
noun
Definition
A person or thing that behaves in a way that is different from what is usual or expected.
Example
The scientist studied the aberrant behavior of the animal in its natural habitat.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new kid in school?
Yeah, I heard he's a bit of an aberrant one.
What do you mean by that?
Root Explanation
Aberrant is formed from "ab-" (meaning away from) and "errant" (from Latin "errans", meaning wandering). The word describes something that is wandering away from the normal or expected path, hence deviating from the norm.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'wandering away' from what is usual or expected — 'ab-' means away from, and 'errant' relates to wandering.
Visually Confused Words
errant
arrant
warrant
uberant
abeyant