<p><strong>Verb:</strong></p><ul><li>(Used with object) To stop, slow down, or hinder the growth or development of; dwarf: A harsh climate stunted the trees. Brutal treatment in childhood stunted his personality.</li></ul><p><strong>Noun:</strong></p><ul><li>A stop or hindrance in growth or development.</li><li>Arrested development.</li><li>A plant or animal hindered from attaining its proper growth.</li><li>Plant Pathology: A disease of plants, characterized by a dwarfing or stunting of the plant.</li></ul>