Synonyms for

Pathological

Verb / ˌpæθʌˈlɑ:dʒɪkʌl / Another word for pathological — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

relating to or caused by a physical or mental disease

Synonyms & similar words

diseased morbid pathologic abnormal diseased disordered morbid pathologic sickly unhealthy

Synonyms by register

Formal

morbid abnormal diseased pathologic

Informal

sick crazy nuts bonkers

Literary

unwholesome perverse

Antonyms

healthy normal natural ordinary typical sound rational

Common collocations

  • pathological liar
  • pathological gambling
  • pathological changes
  • pathological condition
  • pathological behavior
  • pathological narcissism
  • pathological symptoms

Word family

noun pathology
adverb pathologically

Usage note

Often used to describe conditions or behaviors that are extreme and deviate significantly from the norm, implying an unhealthy or abnormal state. Can sometimes be used hyperbolically in informal contexts.

Example sentences

  1. The pathological liar couldn't stop lying even when caught.
  2. The doctor discovered a pathological growth on the patient's lung.
  3. The psychologist diagnosed the patient with pathological depression.
  4. The scientist studied the pathological effects of pollution on the environment.
  5. The detective found pathological evidence at the crime scene.

Quotes

  • 'The pathological pursuit of money is like trying to fill a leaky bucket.' - Peter G. Peterson
  • 'The pathological obsession with productivity that has invaded American corporate life.' - David Graeber
  • 'Greed is a bottomless pit which exhausts the person in an endless effort to satisfy the need without ever reaching satisfaction.' - Erich Fromm

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