I. i-ˈre-gyə-lər, ˌi(r)- 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
II. noun
Date: 15th century
: one that is irregular: as
a. : a soldier who is not a member of a regular military force
b. plural : merchandise that has minor defects or that falls next below the manufacturer's standard for firsts