asymmetrical

adjective

asym·​met·​ri·​cal ˌā-sə-ˈme-tri-kəl How to pronounce asymmetrical (audio)
variants or asymmetric
1
: having two sides or halves that are not the same : not symmetrical
an asymmetrical design
asymmetrical shapes
2
usually asymmetric of a carbon atom : bonded to four different atoms or groups
asymmetrically adverb

Examples of asymmetrical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The asymmetrical flap and the dark and light brown color blocking add a modern touch to the classic front-button silhouette. Anna Popp, Travel + Leisure, 2 May 2025 The bottom of the dress featured an asymmetrical hemline with fringe, showcasing Pugh's open-toed heels and matching pedicure. Ingrid Vasquez, People.com, 29 Apr. 2025 While the set comes with a small Kanuma pumice incense holder, the brand’s bronze asymmetrical beauty—designed in collaboration with Vogel Studio—gives the ritual of burning incense an elegant flair. Lauren Arzbaecher, Architectural Digest, 28 Apr. 2025 Their growth rings are narrow, their wood dense and their architecture asymmetrical. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for asymmetrical

Word History

Etymology

Greek asymmetria lack of proportion, from asymmetros ill-proportioned, from a- + symmetros symmetrical

First Known Use

1690, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of asymmetrical was in 1690

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Asymmetrical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/asymmetrical. Accessed 7 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

asymmetrical

adjective
asym·​met·​ri·​cal ˌā-sə-ˈme-tri-kəl How to pronounce asymmetrical (audio)
variants or asymmetric
: not symmetrical
asymmetrically adverb
asymmetry noun

Medical Definition

asymmetrical

adjective
asym·​met·​ri·​cal ˌā-sə-ˈme-tri-kəl How to pronounce asymmetrical (audio)
variants or asymmetric
1
: not symmetrical
2
usually asymmetric, of a carbon atom : bonded to four different atoms or groups
asymmetrically adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on asymmetrical

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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