|
Symmetry - Dictionary Definition and Overview |
|
Symmetry : (noun)
1: (mathematics) an attribute of a shape or relation; exact
correspondence of form on opposite sides of a dividing
line or plane [syn: symmetricalness, correspondence,
balance] [ant: asymmetry]
2: balance among the parts of something [syn: proportion]
[ant: disproportion]
3: (physics) the property of being isotropic; having the same
value when measured in different directions [syn: isotropy]
[ant: anisotropy]
Based on WordNet 2.0
|
|
Symmetry : \Sym"me*try\, n. [L. symmetria, Gr. ?; sy`n with,
together _ ? a measure: cf. F. sym['e]trie. See Syn-, and
Meter rhythm.]
1. A due proportion of the several parts of a body to each
other; adaptation of the form or dimensions of the several
parts of a thing to each other; the union and conformity
of the members of a work to the whole.
2. (Biol.) The law of likeness; similarity of structure;
regularity in form and arrangement; orderly and similar
distribution of parts, such that an animal may be divided
into parts which are structurally symmetrical.
Note: Bilateral symmetry, or two-sidedness, in vertebrates,
etc., is that in which the body can be divided into
symmetrical halves by a vertical plane passing through
the middle; radial symmetry, as in echinoderms, is that
in which the individual parts are arranged
symmetrically around a central axis; serial symmetry,
or zonal symmetry, as in earthworms, is that in which
the segments or metameres of the body are disposed in a
zonal manner one after the other in a longitudinal
axis. This last is sometimes called metamerism.
3. (Bot.)
(a) Equality in the number of parts of the successive
circles in a flower.
(b) Likeness in the form and size of floral organs of the
same kind; regularity.
Axis of symmetry. (Geom.) See under Axis.
Respective symmetry, that disposition of parts in which
only the opposite sides are equal to each other.
Based on WordNet (r) 2.0 (August 2003)
|
|
|
|
|
