irregularity

[ ih-reg-yuh-lar-i-tee ]

noun

, plural ir·reg·u·lar·i·ties

1. the quality or state of being irregular.
2. something irregular.
3. a breach of rules, customs, etiquette, morality, etc.
4. occasional mild constipation.

Word History and Origins

Origin of irregularity¹

1275–1325; Middle English irregularite < Old French < Medieval Latin irrēgulāritās. See ir- ², regularity ( def )

Example Sentences

Without federal action, the college landscape is poised for a period of uncertainty and irregularity beginning this summer.

From Washington Post

Meanwhile, HHS is reviewing whether the spending irregularities violated the Antideficiency Act, another law governing the use of federal funds authorized by Congress.

From Washington Post

They just have to figure out how to get these elections to work properly so there aren’t all these irregularities and things that appear to be cheating, even if they’re not.

From ProPublica

She said she believed the unsubstantiated reports of ballot fraud, voter suppression and other voting irregularities in Pennsylvania and across the country.

From Washington Post

She objected to Ohio’s 2004 electors, and as with Republicans today, she cited alleged irregularities.

From Washington Post

When the spotlight shines on their lives, the glare makes every irregularity evident.

From The Daily Beast

It is still worse to appear to notice any disorder or irregularity that may occur.

From Project Gutenberg

The only irregularity upon them is a slight elevation on the south end of the latter.

From Project Gutenberg

Gallantry is a weakness of the heart, or perhaps a constitutional defect; coquetry is an irregularity of the mind.

From Project Gutenberg

Owing to the great irregularity of the stones, great difficulty is experienced in obtaining proper bond between the two materials.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus the irregularity in the action of the wind mills in doing such work as this, is of comparatively little consequence.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• breach
• crime
• infringement
• violation