asymmetry

American  

[ey-sim-i-tree] / eɪˈsɪm ɪ tri /

noun

1. the quality or state of being asymmetric.

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asymmetry British  

/ eɪ-, æˈsɪmɪtrɪ /

noun

1. lack or absence of symmetry in spatial arrangements or in mathematical or logical relations

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Etymology

Origin of asymmetry

First recorded in 1645–55, asymmetry is from the Greek word asymmetría lack of proportion. See a- ⁶, symmetry

Explanation

Asymmetry exists when the two halves of something don't match or are unequal. The American flag is an example of asymmetry. If you understand symmetry, you're on your way to understanding asymmetry. Symmetry means that the parts of something are equal or match: if both halves of a house look exactly the same, that's an example of symmetry. If the sides are different, that's asymmetry. This concept can apply to relationships too. If one friend is taking advantage of the other, this is an asymmetrical relationship because it's not equal or fair. When you see the word asymmetry, think unequal or unbalanced.

Example Sentences

"When you see how young they were, you realise the asymmetry of the power there," Massie commented.

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

But there are at least three elements of strategic asymmetry that Iran is also exploiting,

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

The asymmetry that favored China may start to erode.

From Barron's • Mar. 6, 2026

Simple things like the way your body disperses fat, aging, or skin laxity can create asymmetry.

From Slate • Feb. 22, 2026

In the parlance of economists, such a case is known as an information asymmetry.

From "Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything" by Steven D. Levitt

Related Words

• imbalance
• inequality