The word "acentric" is spelled with the prefix "a-" meaning "not", and "centric" which is derived from "centrum" meaning "center". The correct pronunciation of "acentric" is /eɪˈsɛntrɪk/ with emphasis on the second syllable. The IPA phonetic transcription of "acentric" is /əˈsɛn.trɪk/. "Acentric" is commonly used in biology and genetics to describe chromosomes that lack a centromere, which results in improper cell division during mitosis.
Acentric is an adjective used to describe something that lacks a central or prominent focus or point of reference. It stems from the word "acentricity" which refers to the state or condition of being acentric. This term is commonly used in various contexts such as scientific, psychological, and artistic.
In scientific contexts, acentric refers to a molecule or a chromosome that does not have a centromere, a region that plays a vital role in cell division. Such acentric chromosomes or molecules tend to be irregular or abnormal, often leading to genetic disorders or abnormalities in organisms.
In psychological and social contexts, the term acentric may describe someone who does not conform to the societal norms or conventions, someone who does not follow the typical patterns of behavior. These individuals often have a unique perspective or approach to life, often deviating from the mainstream ideologies and thoughts.
From an artistic standpoint, acentric refers to a style or method of expression that deviates from the traditional or conventional norms. It can be applied to various art forms like music, literature, painting, or sculpture, where the artist intentionally distances themselves from the established standards, and creates something entirely new and different.
Overall, acentric implies a lack of centralization, focusing on the absence of a defined center or a unique dominant point in various scientific, psychological, and artistic domains.
Not central, peripheral; excentric.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word acentric comes from two combining forms: a- and centric.
The prefix a- is derived from the Greek prefix an- meaning not or without. It is commonly used in English to indicate negation or absence.
The word centric is derived from the Greek word kentron meaning center. It refers to something that is centered or having a center.
Therefore, acentric combines the prefix a- meaning not and centric meaning centered or having a center. The combination of these two components results in acentric meaning not centered or lacking a center.