Asymmetrical, spelled /ˌeɪsɪˈmɛtrɪkəl/, refers to something that is not exactly the same on both sides. The word is composed of three syllables: "a" pronounced as /eɪ/, "sym" pronounced as /sɪm/, and "metrical" pronounced as /ˈmɛtrɪkəl/. The "a" in the first syllable is pronounced like the "a" in "day," while "sym" is pronounced as "sim." The last syllable, "metrical," is pronounced as "me-tri-kal." Together, they form the word "asymmetrical."
Asymmetrical is an adjective used to describe something that lacks symmetry or balance. It refers to an object, shape, or structure that cannot be divided into two equal or mirror-image parts. In other words, when an object or design is asymmetrical, one side does not correspond exactly or precisely to the other side.
In the realm of aesthetics and art, asymmetry intentionally deviates from traditional or conventional notions of symmetry, resulting in a more dynamic and visually intriguing composition. This deliberate departure from perfect balance can be seen in various art forms such as painting, sculpture, architecture, and fashion. Asymmetrical designs often exhibit irregular shapes, uneven patterns, or unequal proportions, capturing the viewer's attention by challenging their expectations.
In the field of biology, asymmetrical describes organisms or body structures that are unequal or dissimilar in shape or size. It can be used to describe the arrangement of an organism's body parts, such as an asymmetrically shaped leaf or an animal with different-sized appendages.
Asymmetrical can also be used metaphorically to describe concepts, relationships, or situations that lack equality or uniformity. For instance, an asymmetrical power dynamic refers to an imbalance in authority or influence between individuals or groups.
Overall, the term asymmetrical encompasses a broad range of contexts, from art and design to biology and interpersonal dynamics, all sharing the common characteristic of irregularity, imbalance, or lack of symmetry.
Not symmetrical, noting a lack of symmetry between two or more like parts.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Not agreeing; inharmonious.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "asymmetrical" has its roots in the Greek language. It comes from the combination of two Greek words: "a-" meaning "without" or "not", and "symmetría" meaning "symmetry". The Greek word "symmetría" itself is derived from the elements "syn-" meaning "together" and "metrón" meaning "measure". Therefore, "asymmetrical" can be understood as something that lacks symmetry or is without balanced proportions.