The word "disfigure" refers to the act of damaging or deforming someone or something's appearance. It is spelled with the prefix "dis-", meaning "not" or "opposite of", followed by the word "figure". The word "figure" is pronounced with the IPA transcription /ˈfɪɡ.jər/ where the stress falls on the first syllable "fig". Therefore, "disfigure" is pronounced with the transcription /dɪsˈfɪɡ.jər/. The stress shifts to the second syllable "fig" and the prefix "dis-" is pronounced as /dɪs/ with the short "i" sound.
Disfigure is a transitive verb that refers to the act of causing severe damage or altering the appearance of someone or something, in a way that detracts from their normal or original state. It implies the result of permanently impairing the physical features, shape, or visual attractiveness of the subject.
The term is commonly associated with visual deformities or changes caused by an injury, illness, accident, or deliberate harm. It suggests a significant and noticeable alteration to the natural appearance, structure or form, leading to a distorted, unattractive, or disfigured state.
Disfigurement can manifest in various ways, such as facial scars, missing limbs, burnt skin, mutilation, abnormal growths, or any other physical impairment that significantly deviates from the standard norm. It can also extend beyond individuals to animals, objects, or even landscapes, where their natural beauty or functionality is marred by damage or alteration.
The act of disfiguring can result from a variety of causes, including acts of violence, accidents, diseases, birth defects, or medical procedures gone wrong. However, intentional disfigurement, as an act of revenge, punishment, or intimidation, is also a possibility.
Overall, the term "disfigure" denotes the detrimental alteration of a subject's appearance or structure, often resulting in permanent physical changes, impairments, or abnormalities that negatively impact their aesthetic appeal, original form, or functionality.
To mar or injure the external appearance of a person or thing; to impair shape, beauty, or excellence.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "disfigure" originates from the Latin word "disfigurare", which is derived from the combination of two Latin components: "dis-" meaning "apart" or "away", and "figura" meaning "shape" or "form". Hence, "disfigure" essentially means to alter or ruin one's shape or form in a negative or undesirable way.