Definitions for: Anomaly

[n] (astronomy) position of a planet as defined by its angular distance from its perihelion (as observed from the sun)
[n] a person who is unusual
[n] deviation from the normal or common order or form or rule

Webster (1913) Definition: A*nom"a*ly, n.; pl. Anomalies. [L. anomalia, Gr. ?.
See Anomalous.]
1. Deviation from the common rule; an irregularity; anything
anomalous.

We are enabled to unite into a consistent whole the
various anomalies and contending principles that are
found in the minds and affairs of men. --Burke.

As Professor Owen has remarked, there is no greater
anomaly in nature than a bird that can not fly.
--Darwin.

2. (Astron.)
(a) The angular distance of a planet from its perihelion,
as seen from the sun. This is the true anomaly. The
eccentric anomaly is a corresponding angle at the
center of the elliptic orbit of the planet. The mean
anomaly is what the anomaly would be if the planet's
angular motion were uniform.
(b) The angle measuring apparent irregularities in the
motion of a planet.

3. (Nat. Hist.) Any deviation from the essential
characteristics of a specific type.

Synonyms: anomalousness, unusual person

See Also: aberrant, abnormal condition, abnormalcy, abnormality, albino, anachronism, automaton, behemoth, birth defect, colossus, congenital abnormality, congenital anomaly, congenital defect, congenital disorder, eccentric, eccentric person, geek, giant, goliath, human, individual, Jekyll and Hyde, kook, misfit, monster, mortal, odd fellow, odd fish, odd man out, oddball, person, place, position, queer bird, queer duck, rara avis, rare bird, somebody, someone, soul, transsexual, ugly duckling, zombi, zombie

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