irregular

Pronunciation: /ɪˈrɛgjʊlə/

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Definition of irregular

adjective

1not even or balanced in shape or arrangement:his strong, irregular features
occurring at uneven or varying rates or intervals:an irregular heartbeat
Botany (of a flower) having the petals differing in size and shape; zygomorphic.

2contrary to the rules or to that which is normal or established:their involvement in irregular financial dealings
(of troops) not belonging to regular or established army units.

3 Grammar (of a verb or other word) having inflections that do not conform to the usual rules.

noun

(usually irregulars)

1a member of an irregular military force.

2chiefly North American an imperfect piece of merchandise sold at a reduced price.

Derivatives

irregularly

Origin:

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)

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Spell irregular and the related word irregularity with a double r at the beginning.

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Definition of irregular in the US English dictionary

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Other

irregular

adjective

noun

Derivatives

irregularly

Origin:

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irregular in other Oxford dictionaries

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