asymmetry
noun
asym·me·try
(ˌ)ā-ˈsi-mə-trē 
plural asymmetries
: lack or absence of symmetry
As Mercury orbits the Sun, it experiences a small torque due to its slight asymmetry in the plane of its orbit …—
Johanna Miller
Johanna MillerFrench rococo was a part of this mood, which tended to favor pastel colors, asymmetry, a calculated disorder, a dreamy sensuality.—Jonathan D. Spence
Jonathan D. Spence"Handedness"—whether we are left- or right-handed—is a convenient indicator of the development of the brain asymmetries that are thought to be required for language.—Tim Flannery
Tim FlanneryExamples of asymmetry in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Queen Letizia of Spain opted for asymmetry, pleating and a bold pattern for her look during a royal engagement on Tuesday in Madrid.
—Julia Teti, WWD, 12 Feb. 2025
One study examined levels of asymmetry (a lack or absence of symmetry/sameness on both sides) in different body types.
—Laura Schober, Health, 4 Feb. 2025
Moreover, closed-door meetings between administration officials and major Bitcoin miners ahead of these announcements further highlight the risk of information asymmetry, where privileged market participants could gain undue advantage.
—Alexandra Andhov, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025
Asymmetrical Updo With its deep side part and a panel of loose waves, Paris Hilton's platinum updo showcases the beauty of little asymmetry.
—Calin Van Paris, Vogue, 26 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for asymmetry
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Julia Teti, WWD, 12 Feb. 2025
One study examined levels of asymmetry (a lack or absence of symmetry/sameness on both sides) in different body types.
—Laura Schober, Health, 4 Feb. 2025
Moreover, closed-door meetings between administration officials and major Bitcoin miners ahead of these announcements further highlight the risk of information asymmetry, where privileged market participants could gain undue advantage.
—Alexandra Andhov, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025
Asymmetrical Updo With its deep side part and a panel of loose waves, Paris Hilton's platinum updo showcases the beauty of little asymmetry.
—Calin Van Paris, Vogue, 26 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for asymmetry
Cite this Entry
“Asymmetry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/asymmetry. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
asymmetry
noun
asym·me·try
(ˈ)ā-ˈsim-ə-trē
plural asymmetries
1
: lack or absence of symmetry: as
a
: lack of proportion between the parts of a thing
especially
: want of bilateral symmetry
asymmetry in the development of the two sides of the brain
b
: lack of coordination of two parts acting in connection with one another
asymmetry of convergence of the eyes
2
: lack of symmetry in spatial arrangement of atoms and groups in a molecule
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