Synonyms

irregularity

American

[ih-reg-yuh-lar-i-tee] / ɪˌrɛg yəˈlær ɪ ti /

noun

plural

irregularities

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

Etymology

Origin of irregularity

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But an April 2025 audit report by Panama’s comptroller found irregularities—including alleged nonpayment of fees—that might have cost Panama hundreds of millions of dollars.

From The Wall Street Journal

A social media account claiming to be run by a whistleblower at the CCA said staff were told of issues with payments, unexplained expenses and financial irregularities.

From BBC

“There may have been a few irregularities,” said Warren, “with some of Nighthand’s trading in the past.”

From Literature

By keeping a close eye on the management of the trust, you will hopefully avoid having to take legal action to investigate alleged irregularities.

From MarketWatch

As a system shifts from a highly symmetrical state into a more ordered one, small but stable irregularities can appear.

From Science Daily

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023