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 company pointed out that WESCAM MX-Series EO/IR systems bring a new generation of forward-looking infrared and electro-optical sensor capability to a market where advanced asymmetrical threat identification technologies have become a necessity. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 27 Sep. 2025 Elsewhere, dual islands and black cabinetry highlight the spacious kitchen that flows into a family room featuring an asymmetrical wood-and-stone fireplace. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 26 Sep. 2025 And then there was Jason Wu’s new collection of asymmetrical skirts in light colors and skirts of various lengths. Gretta Monahan, Boston Herald, 18 Sep. 2025 An asymmetrical arrangement of pumpkins, lanterns, and tall planters stands out against the warmth of horizontal wood planks on this front door. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 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 30 Sep. 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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