Definition:Axis of Symmetry

Definition

Axis of Bilateral Symmetry

Let $F$ be a plane geometric figure.

Let $\map R F$ be a bilateral symmetry in an axis of reflection $AB$.

Then $AB$ is referred to as an axis of bilateral symmetry of $F$.

Axis of Rotational Symmetry

Let $F$ be a geometric figure.

Let $\map R F$ be a rotational symmetry around the axis of rotation $AB$.

Then $AB$ is referred to as an axis of rotational symmetry of $F$.

Also see

• Results about axes of symmetry can be found here.

Linguistic Note

The plural of axis is axes, which is pronounced ax-eez not ax-iz.

Compare basis.

Sources

• 1989: Ephraim J. Borowski and Jonathan M. Borwein: Dictionary of Mathematics ... (previous) ... (next): axis of symmetry
• 1998: David Nelson: The Penguin Dictionary of Mathematics (2nd ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): symmetry
• 2008: David Nelson: The Penguin Dictionary of Mathematics (4th ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): symmetry