
Hence, the term symmetry means the state of having two halves that match each other exactly in size, shape, and other parameters.Īs seen in the above starfish and octopus example, you will get similar shapes if you cut them along their axis of symmetry. The term symmetry comes from a Greek word ‘sun + metron’, which later transformed into Latin ‘symmetria’, meaning ‘with measure’. This axis is known as the axis of symmetry. If you fold the body along this axis, you will get two or more similar figures.

Line of Symmetry DefinitionĪ line of symmetry is an imaginary line or axis which passes through the center of a body or an object.

Doesn’t it look symmetrical from either side if you draw an imaginary axis along your face? Now, let us understand what a symmetrical body or simply, symmetry means. Or, if an octopus is cut along its head, it will also produce similar shapes. For example, if a starfish is cut across its limbs, you will get similar shapes. A symmetrical body is an object or thing that can be cut along a particular axis, producing similar shapes. Have you wondered why your mirror reflection appears symmetrical while a few objects do not? Or could you guess what the similarity between two marine animals – a starfish and an octopus are? If you guessed they have a symmetrical body, then you are correct. Similarly, the shape would not alter if a mirror were positioned along the line.

This indicates that both half of the object would perfectly match if you folded it along the line. Line of Symmetry is a line that splits a form exactly in half.
