zygomorphic

[ zahy-guh-mawr-fik, zig-uh- ]

adjective

, Biology.

1. having bilateral symmetry; divisible lengthwise into similar or symmetrical halves.

zygomorphic

/ ˌzɪɡ-; ˌzaɪɡəʊˈmɔːfɪk /

adjective

1. (of a flower) capable of being cut in only one plane so that the two halves are mirror images See also actinomorphic

zygomorphic

/ zī′gə-môr′fĭk,zĭg′ə- /

1. Relating to a flower that can be divided into equal halves along only one line; bilaterally symmetrical. The flowers of the iris and the snapdragon are zygomorphic.
2. Compare actinomorphic

Derived Forms

• ˌzygoˈmorphism, noun

Other Words From

• zy·go·mor·phy [zahy, -g, uh, -mawr-fee], zy·go·mor·phism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of zygomorphic¹

First recorded in 1870–75; zygo- + -morphic

Example Sentences

In Pelargonium the flower is zygomorphic with a spurred posterior sepal and the petals differing in size or shape.

From Project Gutenberg

When a flower can be divided by a single plane into two exactly similar parts; then it is said to be zygomorphic.

From Project Gutenberg

I am not sure whether such peloric flowers have ever been purely pollinated and their seed saved separately, but I have often observed that the race comes pure from the seed of the zygomorphic flowers.

From Project Gutenberg