bilateral symmetry
noun Biology.
a basic body plan in which the left and right sides of the organism can be divided into approximate mirror images of each other along the midline.
Compare
radial symmetry.
Origin of bilateral symmetry
First recorded in 1850–55
Words nearby bilateral symmetry
bilabial,
bilabiate,
bilander,
bilateral,
bilateral hermaphroditism,
bilateral symmetry,
bilateral trade,
bilateralism,
bilayer,
bilbao,
bilberry
British Dictionary definitions for bilateral symmetry
bilateral symmetry
noun
the property of an organism or part of an organism such that, if cut in only one plane, the two cut halves are mirror images of each other
See also radial symmetry
Medical definitions for bilateral symmetry
bilateral symmetry
n.
Symmetrical arrangement, as of an organism or a body part, along a central axis, so that the body is divided into equivalent right and left halves by only one plane.
Scientific definitions for bilateral symmetry
bilateral symmetry
[ bī-lăt′ər-əl ]
Symmetrical arrangement of an organism or part of an organism along a central axis, so that the organism or part can be divided into two equal halves. Bilateral symmetry is a characteristic of animals that are capable of moving freely through their environments. Compare radial symmetry.