amorphous
UK: əˈmɔːfəs | US: əˈmɔːrfəs
adj. lacking a clear or definite shape or form
adj. (chemistry) not having a crystalline structure
adj. (figuratively) vague or undefined in character
The word "amorphous" originates from Greek roots. The prefix "a-" (from Greek "a-/an-") negates the following morpheme, here "morph" (from Greek "morphē," meaning "shape"). The suffix "-ous" (from Latin "-osus") forms adjectives indicating possession or quality. Combined, "amorphous" literally means "without shape," reflecting its modern usage to describe things lacking structure—whether physically (e.g., amorphous solids like glass) or abstractly (e.g., vague ideas). The term entered English via scientific Latin in the 18th century, retaining its Greek-rooted logic.
The molten glass cooled into an amorphous solid, lacking any crystalline arrangement.
Her plans for the project were still amorphous, with no clear timeline or goals.
The artist’s sculpture deliberately avoided geometric forms, appearing amorphous and fluid.
In geology, volcanic obsidian is classified as an amorphous mineral.
His amorphous fears about the future made it hard to take concrete action.