Meaning of irregular in English

Table of contents
  1. Pronunciation
  2. Classifying Adjective
    1. Definitions
  3. Noun
    1. Definitions
  4. Qualitative Adjective
    1. Etymology
    2. Definitions

  1. Pronunciation

    /əˈrɛɡjələr/

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    UK accent

  1. Classifying Adjective

    irregular

    Definitions

    1. not occurring at expected times

    Synonyms

  2. 2. deviating from what is usual or common or to be expected

    Examples

    • « often somewhat odd or strange »
    • « these days large families are atypical »
    • « highly irregular behavior »

    Synonyms

  3. 3. lacking continuity or regularity

    Examples

    • « an irregular worker »
    • « employed on a temporary basis »

    Synonyms

  4. 4. of a surface

    Examples

    • « not level or flat »
    • « walking was difficult on the irregular cobblestoned surface »

    Synonyms

  5. 5. used of independent armed resistance forces

    Examples

    • « guerrilla warfare »
    • « partisan forces »

    Synonyms

  6. 6. independent in behavior or thought

    Examples

    • « she led a somewhat irregular private life »
    • « maverick politicians »

    Synonyms

  7. Noun

    irregular

    Definitions

    1. a member of an irregular armed force that fights a stronger force by sabotage and harassment
  8. 2. merchandise that has imperfections

    Examples

    • « usually sold at a reduced price without the brand name »

  9. Qualitative Adjective

    irregular

    Etymology

    late Middle English (in the sense ‘not conforming to rule (especially that of the Church’)): via Old French from medieval Latin irregularis, from in-‘not’ + regularis (see regular)

    Definitions

    1. contrary to rule or accepted order or general practice

    Examples

    • « irregular hiring practices »

    Synonyms

    Antonyms

  10. 2. (of solids) not having clear dimensions that can be measured

    Examples

    • « volume must be determined with the principle of liquid displacement »

    Antonyms

  11. 3. used of the military

    Examples

    • « not belonging to or engaged in by regular army forces »
    • « irregular troops »
    • « irregular warfare »

    Antonyms

Famous quotes

  • « Irregular contact with doctors means many men fail to receive any preventive care for potentially life-threatening conditions. In addition, when men do seek care, embarrassment can often prevent them from openly discussing health concerns with their physicians. »
    Michael Crapo
  • « Man hath still either toys or care: But hath no root, nor to one place is tied, but ever restless and irregular, about this earth doth run and ride. He knows he hath a home, but scarce knows where He says it is so far, that he has quite forgot how to go there. »
    Henry Vaughan

See also

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