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irregular

adjective

/ɪregjʊləʳ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of irregular

Deviating from the standard or usual pattern, form, or arrangement.
"She noticed that her heartbeat was irregular and decided to visit the doctor."

Detailed meaning of irregular

It describes a lack of regularity, consistency, or conformity. When applied to objects, events, or phenomena, it suggests that they do not follow a predictable or expected pattern, often displaying variations, anomalies, or abnormalities. In the context of shapes or structures, "irregular" indicates a lack of symmetry or uniformity. In terms of behavior or occurrences, it implies a departure from the norm or a departure from established rules or regulations. The irregular nature of something implies a certain level of unpredictability or unconventional characteristics, making it stand out or differ from the typical or expected.

Example sentences containing irregular

1. The map showed a winding river with an irregular course cutting through the landscape.
2. The rug had an irregular shape, adding a unique touch to the room.
3. He found an irregular stone that looked as if it could be an ancient artifact.
4. The teacher was concerned about the child's irregular attendance at school.
5. The artist’s use of irregular brush strokes gave his painting a sense of motion.
6. The seamstress had to fix the dress because it had an irregular hemline.

History and etymology of irregular

The adjective 'irregular' has a rich etymological history, originating from Latin and Old French. Its root can be traced back to the Latin word 'irregularis,' which consists of two elements: 'ir' meaning 'not' or 'un-' and 'regularis' derived from 'regula,' meaning 'rule' or 'pattern.' In essence, 'regularis' referred to something conforming to a set pattern or standard. Over time, as Latin evolved into Old French, the term 'irregularis' transitioned into 'irreguler,' maintaining its sense of deviation from the standard or usual pattern. This word eventually made its way into English, and today, 'irregular' is used to describe something that deviates from the established norms, form, or arrangement, as dictated by its etymological roots.

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Further usage examples of irregular

1. His irregular sleeping patterns made it difficult for him to keep a normal schedule.
2. The plot of the book was intriguing, but the irregular pacing made it a challenging read.
3. The irregular texture of the wall gave the room an industrial and modern look.
4. The garden had an irregular arrangement of flowers, which lent it a wild and natural beauty.
5. The crystal had an irregular surface, causing it to sparkle in a multitude of colors.
6. The irregular shape of the cloud caught my attention.
7. Her irregular attendance in class affected her grades.
8. The old house had irregular floorboards and crooked walls.
9. An irregular heartbeat can be a cause for concern.
10. The irregular schedule made it hard to plan anything.
11. The irregular pattern of the leaves intrigued botanists.
12. His irregular work hours disrupted his family life.
13. The road had many irregular bumps and potholes.
14. The artist embraced irregular shapes in their abstract paintings.
15. The weather had an irregular pattern this season.
16. The company's irregular financial statements raised suspicions.
17. Her irregular breathing indicated anxiety.
18. The city's irregular zoning laws caused confusion.
19. The athlete faced suspension for using irregular equipment.
20. An irregular rhythm in the music added excitement.
21. The irregular layout of the maze puzzled visitors.
22. The irregular markings on the butterfly's wings were unique.
23. The politician's irregular behavior raised eyebrows.
24. An irregular pulse could be a sign of illness.
25. The irregular distribution of resources caused tension.