bilaterally symmetrical
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Having identical parts on each side of an axis: Describes an object or organism whose left and right sides are mirror images of each other when divided along a central line.
- Capable of division into symmetrical halves by only one longitudinal plane passing through the axis: Specifically describes a body plan where symmetry is achieved only by a single cut along the lengthwise (sagittal) plane.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- The human body is bilaterally symmetrical.
- A butterfly's wings are a classic example of bilaterally symmetrical patterns.
- Most animals, from dogs to fish, exhibit a bilaterally symmetrical body plan.
Advanced Usage
- In Biology: The term is fundamental in describing animal body plans (Bilateria), contrasting with radial symmetry (e.g., in jellyfish) or asymmetry.
- The evolution of bilaterally symmetrical organisms allowed for greater mobility and cephalization.
- In Design and Art: Used to describe formal, balanced compositions.
- The architect designed a bilaterally symmetrical facade for the palace.
Variants and Related Words
- Bilateral (adj): Involving two sides; often used in political or anatomical contexts (e.g., a bilateral agreement).
- Symmetry (n): The quality of being made up of exactly similar parts facing each other or around an axis.
- Bilaterality (n): The condition of having two sides or of affecting two sides equally.
Synonyms
- Zygomorphic (adj): A botanical term specifically for flowers that are bilaterally symmetrical (capable of being divided into mirror halves along only one plane).
- Divisible into mirror halves.
Antonyms
- Asymmetrical (adj): Lacking symmetry.
- Radially symmetrical (adj): Symmetrical around a central axis, like a starfish or a wheel, where multiple planes can create symmetrical halves.
Adjective
- having identical parts on each side of an axis
- capable of division into symmetrical halves by only one longitudinal plane passing through the axis