n.
Pronunciation: i- ' re-gy ə -l ə r, ˌ i(r)-
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English irreguler, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin irregularis not in accordance with rule, from Latin in- + regularis regular
Date: 14th century
1 a : not being or acting in accord with laws, rules, or established custom < irregular conduct> b : not conforming to the usual pattern of inflection < irregular verbs> specifically : STRONG 16 c : not following a usual or prescribed procedure especially British : celebrated without either proclamation of the banns or publication of intention to marry < irregular marriage>
2 : not belonging to or a part of a regular organized group specifically : not belonging to a regular army but raised for a special purpose < irregular troops>
3 a : lacking perfect symmetry or evenness <an irregular coastline> b : having one or more floral parts of the same whorl different in size, shape, or arrangement specifically : ZYGOMORPHIC
4 : lacking continuity or regularity especially of occurrence or activity < irregular employment>
– ir · reg · u · lar · ly adverb
synonyms IRREGULAR , ANOMALOUS , UNNATURAL mean not conforming to rule, law, or custom. IRREGULAR implies not conforming to a law or regulation imposed for the sake of uniformity in method, practice, or conduct <concerned about his irregular behavior>. ANOMALOUS implies not conforming to what might be expected because of the class or type to which it belongs or the laws that govern its existence <her drive made her an anomalous figure in a sleepy organization>. UNNATURAL suggests what is contrary to nature or to principles or standards felt to be essential to the well-being of civilized society <prisoners treated with unnatural cruelty>.