What does unsymmetrical mean?
Unsymmetrical means lacking symmetry: having sides, parts, or features that do not correspond evenly or mirror one another. It can describe an object’s shape, the arrangement of its components, or a pattern that is visibly or mathematically uneven. The word is less common than asymmetrical, which is usually the preferred general term, but unsymmetrical can sound precise in technical, architectural, scientific, or formal descriptions. In everyday use, it often conveys visual imbalance, such as an irregular building or a design whose two halves do not match. More broadly, it may describe any arrangement lacking proportional or mirrored balance. Although it sounds emphatic, unsymmetrical does not necessarily imply that something is defective or objectionable; it simply identifies the absence of symmetry. Its historical formation through the prefix un- and the word symmetrical makes its meaning readily understandable.
adjectiveNot symmetrical; lacking symmetry or balance in shape, arrangement, or structure.
- Not symmetrical; lacking symmetry or balance in shape, arrangement, or structure.
"The old church has an unsymmetrical design, with a narrow tower and a much wider nave."
"The cracked façade formed an unsymmetrical pattern of lines and shadows."
"Researchers examined the unsymmetrical distribution of the species across the island."
Unsymmetrical is asymmetrical’s less familiar cousin: both describe imbalance, but one sounds more like a design note or scientific observation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does unsymmetrical come from?
Unsymmetrical was formed by adding the prefix un- to symmetrical, meaning “not symmetrical.” Symmetrical and symmetry ultimately derive through Latin from Greek symmetria, associated with sym-, meaning “together,” and metron, meaning “measure.” The use of the negative prefix reflects the later development of the related terms in English, with symmetrical and symmetrical family becoming established before unsymmetrical appeared.
Related word forms
How unsymmetrical is actually used
This word is relatively uncommon compared with asymmetrical. It is neutral in meaning but tends to occur in formal, technical, or descriptive writing, especially when discussing shapes, structures, patterns, and distributions.
Easily confused with unsymmetrical
Asymmetrical is the more common and neutral term for lacking symmetry; unsymmetrical has essentially the same meaning but is less frequent and often sounds more technical.