Irregular: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'irregularis', where 'in-' means not, and 'regularis' means regular or orderly.
• It was first used in English around the 15th century, emphasizing things that were out of order or not normal.

Mathematics

• In geometry, an irregular shape doesn't have equal sides or angles, making it different from regular shapes like squares or circles.
• Irregular numbers in mathematics might refer to non-standard integers, raising interesting discussions in number theory.

Grammar

• In language, an irregular verb doesn’t follow standard rules for conjugation, like 'go' becoming 'went' instead of 'goed'.
• This uniqueness often makes learning a new language more challenging and interesting.

Natural Science

• In biology, irregular cells can indicate abnormal growths, making them significant in studies of diseases like cancer.
• Many natural formations, like clouds and mountains, are considered irregular due to their unique shapes and inconsistent patterns.

Art and Culture

• Irregular patterns in art can create dynamic and engaging compositions, often leading to a greater emotional response.
• Some music genres feature irregular rhythms which can make the listening experience more captivating and unpredictable.

Ranking #3,734, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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