amorphous
/ə'mɔ:fəs/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Lacking a definite form or shape: Describes something that has no clear, distinct, or organized shape.
- Lacking a crystalline structure: In the context of materials, especially solids, it describes a substance whose atoms or molecules are not arranged in a regular, repeating pattern.
- Lacking organization or structure: Describes something that is vague, unstructured, or not clearly defined in its arrangement or character.
Usage Examples
- Describing physical shape:
- The sculptor started with an amorphous lump of clay.
- Amorphous clouds drifted across the sky.
- Describing material structure:
- Glass is a classic example of an amorphous solid.
- The sample was an amorphous mineral, not a crystal.
- Describing abstract concepts:
- His plans for the project were still amorphous and needed refinement.
- She felt an amorphous sense of dread.
Advanced Usage
- In science and materials: Often used in geology, chemistry, and physics to describe non-crystalline solids like obsidian (volcanic glass) or many plastics.
- The polymer was cooled quickly to form an amorphous state.
- In criticism or analysis: Used to describe ideas, feelings, or artistic works that lack clear definition or structure.
- The film's plot was criticized for being amorphous and confusing.
Variants and Related Words
- Amorphously (adverb): In an amorphous manner.
- The ideas were amorphously connected.
- Amorphousness (noun): The quality or state of being amorphous.
- The amorphousness of the concept made it hard to teach.
Synonyms
- Shapeless: Having no definite shape.
- Formless: Lacking a distinct form.
- Unstructured: Lacking a clear or organized structure.
- Vague: Not clearly expressed, defined, or understood.
- Nebulous: In the form of a cloud or haze; hazy; vague.
Antonyms
- Crystalline: Having the structure and form of a crystal.
- Structured: Having a clear and organized arrangement.
- Defined: Having a clear outline or meaning.
- Shaped: Having a particular form.
Related Phrases and Idioms
(Note: "Amorphous" itself is not commonly used in fixed idioms. Its usage is typically literal or descriptive.) - An amorphous mass/blob: A common phrase to describe a substance or group with no distinct shape. - The creature appeared as an amorphous blob. - Amorphous concept/idea: A phrase used to describe a vague or poorly defined notion. - "Happiness" can be an amorphous concept to define.
Adjective
- without real or apparent crystalline form
- an amorphous mineral
- amorphous structure
- lacking the system or structure characteristic of living bodies
- having no definite form or distinct shape
- amorphous clouds of insects
- an aggregate of formless particles
- a shapeless mass of protoplasm