異形
い
け
い
Meanings
1
variant; variant form
General term for something that differs in form from the standard or typical; used in linguistics, literature, and everyday contexts.
This word has several variant forms.
Variant forms of the legendary creature are told in various regions.
2
heteromorphism; heteromorphy
Biology term for organisms or structures that deviate from the typical form of the species.
This insect exhibits heteromorphism depending on the season.
Usage patterns
- 異形を呈するto exhibit a variant form
This specimen exhibits a form that differs from the usual one.
- 異形をとるto take on a variant form
This word sometimes takes on a variant form depending on the dialect.