dissymmetry

[ dih-sim-i-tree, dis-sim- ]

noun

1. absence or lack of symmetry.

dissymmetry

/ dɪˈsɪmɪtrɪ; ˌdɪsɪˈmɛtrɪk; dɪsˈsɪm-; ˌdɪssɪ- /

noun

1. lack of symmetry
2. the relationship between two objects when one is the mirror image of the other See also chirality
3. another name for chirality

Derived Forms

• ˌdissymˈmetrically, adverb
• dissymmetric, adjective

Other Words From

• dis·sym·met·ric [dis-i-, me, -trik, dis-si-], dissym·metri·cal adjective
• dissym·metri·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of dissymmetry¹

First recorded in 1835–45; dis- ¹ + symmetry

Example Sentences

If later on the large pincer is again cut off the process is repeated and the original dissymmetry is restored.

From Project Gutenberg

None of these substances, however, has any effect on polarized light or shows any dissymmetry in the form of its crystals.

From Project Gutenberg

Pasteur found that the paratartrates were not only dissymmetrical, but that they possessed two forms of dissymmetry.

From Project Gutenberg

If Pasteur's idea as to the dissymmetry of crystals were confirmed, a great scientific advance was assured.

From Project Gutenberg

Dissymmetry probably represents some essential manifestation of vital force.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• imbalance
• inequality