The term "monoclinic" refers to one of the seven crystal systems in crystallography. In this system, crystals are characterized by three unequal axes, with two of them intersecting at an angle that is not 90 degrees, while the third axis is perpendicular to the plane formed by the other two. Common examples of monoclinic minerals include gypsum and orthoclase. Monoclinic crystals can exhibit various forms and structures, often leading to unique physical properties. The symmetry of monoclinic crystals is lower than that of other systems, such as cubic or hexagonal, making them distinct in their geometric arrangements.