alignment

Also a·line·ment

[uh-lahyn-muhnt]

noun

1. an adjustment to a line; arrangement in a straight line.

2. the line or lines so formed.

3. the proper adjustment of the components of an electronic circuit, machine, etc., for coordinated functioning.

   The front wheels of the car are out of alignment.

4. a state of agreement or cooperation among persons, groups, nations, etc., with a common cause or viewpoint.

5. a ground plan of a railroad or highway.

6. Archaeology.,  a line or an arrangement of parallel or converging lines of upright stones or menhirs.

alignment

/ əˈlaɪnmənt /

noun

1. arrangement in a straight line

2. the line or lines formed in this manner

3. alliance or union with a party, cause, etc

4. proper or desirable coordination or relation of components

5. a ground plan of a railway, motor road, etc

6. archaeol an arrangement of one or more ancient rows of standing stones, of uncertain significance

7. psychol integration or harmonization of aims, practices, etc within a group

8. psychol identification with or matching of the behaviour, thoughts, etc of another person

Other Word Forms

• nonalinement noun
• realignment noun
• self-alignment noun
• self-alinement noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of alignment¹

First recorded in 1780–90; align + -ment; replacing earlier alignement, from French

Example Sentences

Garber has long been pushing for the move, telling reporters at last summer’s MLS All-Star Game “that alignment is something that makes sense.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Then, once the planets have reached the ideal alignment in the fall of 2026, the spacecraft will get a boost from Earth's gravity and begin the journey to Mars, where they will arrive in 2027.

Read more on Barron's

However, the idea of alignment with EU regulations has been attacked by both the Conservatives and Reform UK as a betrayal of Brexit.

Read more on BBC

Jayich explained that MRI works by controlling the alignment and energy states of protons and detecting the signals they emit as they relax, forming an image of internal structures.

Read more on Science Daily

October’s high of 153.28 is likely a key level for traders in short term, made more significant by its alignment with weekly pivot point, Simpson says.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• adjustment