1. in mathematics, describing a relation where no element is related to itself
Usage: mathematics; logic

Examples

• The ‘less than’ relation is irreflexive because no number is less than itself.
• In set theory, an irreflexive relation never connects an element to itself.
• The professor explained that ‘parent of’ is an irreflexive relation.
• Students must understand the difference between reflexive and irreflexive relations.
• The inequality symbol represents an irreflexive mathematical relationship.