bilateral symmetry

American  

noun

Biology.

1. a basic body plan in which the left and right sides of the organism can be divided into approximate mirror images of each other along the midline.

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bilateral symmetry British  

noun

1. the property of an organism or part of an organism such that, if cut in only one plane, the two cut halves are mirror images of each other See also radial symmetry

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bilateral symmetry Scientific  

/ bī-lăt′ər-əl /

1. Symmetrical arrangement of an organism or part of an organism along a central axis, so that the organism or part can be divided into two equal halves. Bilateral symmetry is a characteristic of animals that are capable of moving freely through their environments.

2. Compare radial symmetry

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Etymology

Origin of bilateral symmetry

First recorded in 1850–55

Compare meaning

How does bilateral-symmetry compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• radial symmetry vs. bilateral symmetry

Example Sentences

Bilateral symmetry is found in both land-based and aquatic animals; it enables a high level of mobility.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Bilateral symmetry is a body plan in which a single imaginary plane can divide the body into left and right sides that are mirror images of each other.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2018

Bilateral symmetry and segmentation are often found together.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2018

Bilateral symmetry is illustrated in Figure 15.4c using a goat.

From Textbooks • Apr. 25, 2013

Bilateral symmetry has long been recognized as a primary principle in æsthetic composition.

From Harvard Psychological Studies, Volume 1 Containing Sixteen Experimental Investigations from the Harvard Psychological Laboratory. by Münsterberg, Hugo