dwarfism

noun

dwarf·​ism ˈdwȯr-ˌfi-zəm How to pronounce dwarfism (audio)
: a condition of stunted growth
especially : a condition (such as achondroplasia) of people and animals marked by unusually small size or short stature

Examples of dwarfism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Matt and Amy, both of whom have dwarfism, had just purchased a home in California, where Matt worked as a successful computer programmer. — Luke Chinman, PEOPLE, 12 Oct. 2026 The need-to-know this morning BridgeBio said the FDA granted priority review to its oral treatment for children with achondroplasia, a common form of dwarfism. — Allison Deangelis, STAT, 6 Oct. 2026 Hilariously, the Oompa Loompas are still around, and some are played by actors with dwarfism — but others are of average height, or even unusually large. — Alison Herman, Variety, 23 Sep. 2026 Shtern’s best friend from camp, who has dwarfism, surprised her in Cleveland last year. — Rachel Hale, USA Today, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dwarfism

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dwarfism was in 1833

Rhymes for dwarfism

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Browse Nearby Words

dwarfish
dwarfism
dwarf Japanese quince
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Cite this Entry

“Dwarfism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dwarfism. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

dwarfism

noun
dwarf·​ism ˈdwȯr-ˌfiz-əm How to pronounce dwarfism (audio)
: a condition of stunted growth
especially : a condition (as achondroplasia) marked by unusually small size or short stature

More from Merriam-Webster on dwarfism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about dwarfism

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