Deform, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Deformed; p. pr. & vb. n. Deforming.]
Etymology: [L. deformare; de- + formare to form, shape, fr. forma: cf. F. déformer. See Form.]
1. To spoil the form of; to mar in form; to misshape; to disfigure. Deformed, unfinished, sent before my time Into this breathing world. Shak.
2. To render displeasing; to deprive of comeliness, grace, or perfection; to dishonor. Above those passions that this world deform. Thomson.
1 other Webster entry under this spelling
Deform, a.
Deformed; misshapen; shapeless; horrid. [Obs.] Sight so deform what heart of rock could long Dry-eyed behold Milton.
Shades of meaning
Fernald lists deform only as an antonym, under adorn.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.
Synonyms
none given