# symmetric

/səˈmɛtɹɪk/ (US) · /sɪmˈɛtɹɪk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/symmetric
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. matching halves

adjective · CEFR B2

having two halves that are exactly the same in shape and size.

For teachers: exhibiting symmetry; having parts that correspond to one another in size, form, and arrangement.

- The butterfly's wings were perfectly symmetric, with matching patterns on both sides.
- The architect designed a symmetric facade for the museum, ensuring that the left wing mirrored the right wing in every detail.

### 2. encryption

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

using the same secret key to lock and unlock digital information.

For teachers: relating to a type of cryptography where the same key is utilised for both encryption and decryption.

- Symmetric encryption is very fast, but both people must know the secret key.
- The system employs symmetric algorithms to ensure high-speed data processing while maintaining a secure connection between the two servers.

### 3. logical relations

adjective · CEFR C1 · Academic · Technical

describes a relationship where if it works one way, it also works the other way.

For teachers: describing a relation where the order of elements does not change the truth value; if A relates to B, then B relates to A.

- Friendship is a symmetric relationship because if I am your friend, you are my friend.
- In formal logic, the 'equals' sign represents a symmetric relation, as the statement remains valid regardless of which side the variables occupy.

## Examples

- The butterfly has symmetric patterns on its wings.
- Architects often design government buildings with symmetric facades to create a sense of balance and authority.
- In theoretical physics, certain laws remain invariant under symmetric transformations, suggesting that the fundamental properties of the universe do not change when viewed from a mirrored perspective.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.