asymmetry
Americannoun
noun
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.
Vocabulary lists containing asymmetry
Visual Arts - Introductory
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Visual Arts - High School
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Visual Arts - Middle School
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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.
Rajan has warned of the asymmetry in using QE by highlighting how paring back the balance sheet is harder than expanding it.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 9, 2026
The asymmetry no longer reads as a “fossil trace” indicating a preference, but as one possible effect of a structurally unequal relationship between human populations.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 7, 2026
There is, however, an asymmetry in what central-bank watchers call “forward guidance.”
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 19, 2026
It means there is an asymmetry to the audiences they are currently talking to.
From BBC ● May 19, 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
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
