aberrant
/əˈbɛɹ.n̩t/
Group 30Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Departing from an accepted standard; abnormal GRE
Example in Context
The aberrant test results prompted a complete review of the laboratory's procedures to determine whether the anomaly was systemic or isolated.
Synonyms
abnormaldeviantunusual
Etymology
Describes straying from the norm, like a zebra with polka dots.
- aberrare (Latin) — to stray
Memory Aid
🐜Sounds like “a bear ant”
When a bear saw an ANT with polka dots, it thought, 'This is ABERRANT behavior for an insect!'
Visual Association
🦓A zebra prancing proudly with polka dots instead of stripes, drawing confused stares.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “aberrant” mean on the GRE?
aberrant (adjective) means “Departing from an accepted standard; abnormal”. The aberrant test results prompted a complete review of the laboratory's procedures to determine whether the anomaly was systemic or isolated.
How to remember “aberrant” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “aberrant” sounds like “a bear ant”. When a bear saw an ANT with polka dots, it thought, 'This is ABERRANT behavior for an insect!'
What are synonyms for “aberrant”?
Common synonyms: abnormal, deviant, unusual.