diametrical

American  

[dahy-uh-me-tri-kuhl] / ˌdaɪ əˈmɛ trɪ kəl /

Also diametric

adjective

1. of, relating to, or along a diameter.

2. in direct opposition; being at opposite extremes; complete.

   diametrical opposites; a diametrical difference.

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Other Word Forms

• diametrically adverb
• undiametric adjective
• undiametrical adjective
• undiametrically adverb

Etymology

Origin of diametrical

1545–55; < Greek diametrik ( ós ) ( diámetr ( os ) diameter + -ikos -ic ) + -al ¹

Explanation

In geometry, the adjective diametrical has to do with a straight line running through the middle of a circle — all diametrical lines will intersect at the very center. Aside from its mathematical meaning, you an also use this word to emphasize how opposed two things (or people) are. If you and your sister couldn't possibly be more different (she's a morning person, while you're a night owl; she's outgoing, you're an introvert), you can say you're diametrical opposites. The root of diametrical is the Greek diametros, "diagonal of a circle."

Example Sentences

And though the two movies look like diametrical opposites, they share a pair of undeniable throughlines: the aching, all-consuming feeling of desire and the remarkable actors chosen to depict it.

From Salon • Nov. 27, 2024

The diametrical pair overtook Holmes in the primary.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 6, 2022

The diametrical opposite, Julia Wolfe’s “Early That Summer,” built up tension through a driving stream of notes, although the expected climaxes never materialized.

From Washington Post • Feb. 12, 2017

He said he has come to believe that journalism and cinema aren't just incompatible but diametrical.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 12, 2016

By this diametrical change of Christian thought a great amount of scepticism has already been antiquated.

From Miracles and Supernatural Religion by Whiton, James Morris