Main Entry: ¹ir·reg·u·lar

Pronunciation: \i-ˈre-gyə-lər, ˌi(r)-\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English irreguler, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin irregularis not in accordance with rule, from Latin in- + regularis regular

Date: 14th century

1 a : not being or acting in accord with laws, rules, or established custom <irregular conduct> b : not conforming to the usual pattern of inflection <irregular verbs>; specifically : strong 16 c : not following a usual or prescribed procedure; especially British : celebrated without either proclamation of the banns or publication of intention to marry <irregular marriage>
2 : not belonging to or a part of a regular organized group; specifically : not belonging to a regular army but raised for a special purpose <irregular troops>
3 a : lacking perfect symmetry or evenness <an irregular coastline> b : having one or more floral parts of the same whorl different in size, shape, or arrangement; specifically : zygomorphic
4 : lacking continuity or regularity especially of occurrence or activity <irregular employment>

— ir·reg·u·lar·ly adverb

synonyms irregular, anomalous, unnatural mean not conforming to rule, law, or custom. irregular implies not conforming to a law or regulation imposed for the sake of uniformity in method, practice, or conduct <concerned about his irregular behavior>. anomalous implies not conforming to what might be expected because of the class or type to which it belongs or the laws that govern its existence <her drive made her an anomalous figure in a sleepy organization>. unnatural suggests what is contrary to nature or to principles or standards felt to be essential to the well-being of civilized society <prisoners treated with unnatural cruelty>.