symmetric

Same both sides

Symmetric means having corresponding parts that mirror each other across a dividing line or point.

A butterfly's wings are symmetric.

In mathematics, a symmetric relation works in both directions—if A relates to B, then B relates to A.

The word is interchangeable with symmetrical, though symmetric appears more often in technical contexts: a symmetric matrix, symmetric encryption.

physical

mirror

Reflective viewing surface

face · wings · leaves · butterfly · limbs · torso · features · anatomy · paired · halves

mathematics

geometry

Science of spatial relationships

equilateral · isosceles · transformation · rotation · translation · invariant · axis · permutation · eigenvalue · matrix

aesthetics

balance

Steadiness or amount owed

harmony · pleasing · design · pattern · composition · grace · uniformity · refinement · sleekness · artistry

relational

reciprocal

Shared between two parties

equivalent · corresponding · two-way · shared · parallel · even · fair · equitable · bidirectional · interchangeable

Categories
Opposites
balance and proportion

symmetricasymmetric

Not identical on both sides

asymmetrical · lopsided · unbalanced · uneven · crooked

mathematical/logical relations

symmetricasymmetric

Not identical on both sides

antisymmetric · asymmetrical · directed · one-way · unidirectional

regularity and order

symmetricasymmetrical

Not equal on both sides

irregular · random · chaotic · organic · haphazard

Phrases
Family

symmetry, asymmetrical, symmetrical, asymmetry, asymmetric, symmetrically, unsymmetrical, nonsymmetrical

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Everyday, not technical · Rated G