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Asymmetry: meaning, definitions and examples

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asymmetry

 

[ əˈsɪmɪtri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

physics

Lack of symmetry or balance between two opposing forces or aspects. In physics, it refers to a situation where an object or system is not symmetrical in relation to a specific axis or plane.

Synonyms

disparity, imbalance, inequality

Examples of usage

  • The asymmetry of the molecule affects its stability.
  • The asymmetry in the experimental results raised questions about the accuracy of the measurements.
Context #2 | Noun

art

A lack of symmetry in design or composition, intentionally used to create visual interest or tension. It is often employed in modern art to challenge traditional notions of beauty and balance.

Synonyms

irregularity, nonuniformity, variability

Examples of usage

  • The artist used asymmetry in the painting to evoke a sense of movement.
  • The asymmetry of the sculpture added a dynamic element to the exhibit.
Context #3 | Noun

biology

The absence of symmetry or balance in the form or structure of an organism. It can refer to differences in size, shape, or arrangement of body parts.

Synonyms

dissimilarity, divergence, unevenness

Examples of usage

  • The asymmetry of the flower petals puzzled the botanist.
  • The genetic mutation led to asymmetry in the development of the organism.

Translations

Translations of the word "asymmetry" in other languages:

🇵🇹 assimetria

🇮🇳 असममिति

🇩🇪 Asymmetrie

🇮🇩 asimetris

🇺🇦 асиметрія

🇵🇱 asymetria

🇯🇵 非対称

🇫🇷 asymétrie

🇪🇸 asimetría

🇹🇷 asimetrik

🇰🇷 비대칭

🇸🇦 لاتماثل

🇨🇿 asymetrie

🇸🇰 asymetria

🇨🇳 不对称

🇸🇮 asimetrija

🇮🇸 ósamhverfa

🇰🇿 асимметрия

🇬🇪 ასიმეტრია

🇦🇿 asimmetriya

🇲🇽 asimetría

Etymology

The word 'asymmetry' originated from the combination of the prefix 'a-' meaning 'not' or 'without' and the word 'symmetry' which comes from the Greek 'summetria' meaning 'agreement in dimensions'. The concept of asymmetry has been studied across various fields including physics, art, and biology, highlighting the importance of imbalance and lack of symmetry in diverse contexts.

See also: symmetrical.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,166, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.