distortion

(dĭ-stôrˈshən)

1. a. The act or an instance of distorting.
   b. The condition of being distorted.
2. A statement that twists fact; a misrepresentation.
3. A change in the shape of an image resulting from imperfections in an optical system, such as a lens.
4. Electronics
   a. An undesired change in the waveform of a signal.
   b. A consequence of such a change, especially a lack of fidelity in reception or reproduction.
5. Psychology The modification of unconscious impulses into forms acceptable by conscious or dreaming perception.

Related Forms:

• dis·torˈtion·al, dis·torˈtion·arˌy adjective