aberration

noun

1. The act of wandering; deviation from truth, moral rectitude; abnormal; divergence from the straight, correct, proper, normal, or from the natural state.

   “the aberration of youth”

   “aberrations from theory”

2. opticsThe 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.

3. astronomyA small periodical change of the apparent positions of the stars and other heavenly bodies, due to the combined effect of the motion of light and the motion of the observer.

4. astronomyThe tendency of light rays to preferentially strike the leading face of a moving object (the effect underlying the above phenomenon).

5. A partial alienation of reason.

6. A mental disorder, especially one of a minor or temporary character.

7. zoologybotanyAtypical development or structure; deviation from the normal type; an aberrant organ.

8. medicineA deviation of a tissue, organ or mental functions from what is considered to be within the normal range.

9. electronicsA defect in an image produced by an optical or electrostatic lens system.

10. A state or condition markedly different from the norm

    Similar: aberrance, aberrancy, deviance

11. An optical phenomenon resulting from the failure of a lens or mirror to produce a good image

    Similar: distortion, optical aberration