radial symmetry

noun

: the condition of having similar parts regularly arranged around a central axis
radially symmetrical adjective

Examples of radial symmetry in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The end result, constructed at Harvard, resembled the nave of a cathedral built by aliens to worship radial symmetry, or an iron maiden for punishing giant cubes. Caity Weaver, New York Times, 23 Nov. 2022 At the Rubenstein Arts Center on Duke University’s campus, an image from a microscope makes an alien landscape out of the knobby, radial symmetry of a sea urchin skeleton. Marissa Fessenden, Smithsonian, 12 July 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'radial symmetry.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of radial symmetry was in 1872

Dictionary Entries Near radial symmetry

Cite this Entry

“Radial symmetry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/radial%20symmetry. Accessed 1 Oct. 2023.

Kids Definition

radial symmetry

noun
: plant and animal symmetry in which similar parts are arranged in a balanced way around the center of the body compare bilateral symmetry

Medical Definition

radial symmetry

noun
: the condition of having similar parts regularly arranged around a central axis
radially symmetrical adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on radial symmetry

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