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 piece has an asymmetrical hem that’s complete with dainty ruffle detailing. Rylee Johnston, PEOPLE, 18 Oct. 2025 Kloss’ footwear showed off an asymmetrical design with the upper, which is cut away on the inner side to reveal the foot while the other side has a regular low-cut outline. Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 17 Oct. 2025 Leaving a bit of blank space on the wreath gives it a modern, asymmetrical look. Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Oct. 2025 All the furniture pieces in your bedroom don’t have to be the same finish or style, instead consider using antiques or family heirloom pieces for an asymmetrical look and embracing imperfection. Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 28 Sep. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Asymmetrical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/asymmetrical. Accessed 20 Oct. 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

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