English Reference
adjective

lopsided

adj.
US /ˈɫɑpˈsaɪdɪd/ UK /lˈɒpsaɪdɪd/ lop·sid·ed

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    having one side that is lower, smaller, or heavier than the other.

    physically asymmetrical or leaning to one side due to an uneven distribution of weight or mass.

    Simple

    The cake looked a bit lopsided because it didn't rise evenly in the oven.

    In context

    The old cottage had a charming but lopsided appearance, with the roof sagging significantly toward the eastern garden wall.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun or after a linking verb like 'look' or 'be'.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    not equal or balanced, especially in a game, a competition, or an argument.

    metaphorically unbalanced; used to describe competitions or situations where one party has an overwhelming advantage.

    Simple

    The football match was very lopsided, with the home team winning six-zero.

    In context

    Critics argued that the debate was lopsided, as the moderator allowed one candidate significantly more time to address the audience.

    Usage

    Commonly used to describe scores, votes, or arguments.


From lop (“to hang loosely”) + side + -ed.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated