self-similarity
noun
self-sim·i·lar·i·ty
ˌself-ˌsi-mə-ˈler-ə-tē 
-ˈla-rə-
: the quality or state of having an appearance that is invariant upon being scaled larger or smaller
magnify the fractal and you can see the self-similarity of its edge
Examples of self-similarity in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
To sidestep the inconvenience of infinity, mathematicians have recently focused their search on singularities with a special property called self-similarity.
—
Quanta Magazine, 9 Jan. 2026
To see self-similarity in action, imagine connecting the star’s points with straight lines.
—Steven Strogatz, New York Times, 16 June 2025
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.
Quanta Magazine, 9 Jan. 2026
To see self-similarity in action, imagine connecting the star’s points with straight lines.
—Steven Strogatz, New York Times, 16 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Self-similarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-similarity. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share