alignment

[ 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 Words From

• nona·linement noun
• rea·lignment noun
• self-a·lignment noun
• self-a·linement noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of alignment¹

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

Example Sentences

Mr Musk and the Guardian are far from political bed fellows, so in that sense it is not surprising that the newspaper has responded to his and X's increasing alignment with Trump in this way.

From BBC

In a rare moment of bipartisan alignment, Vice President Kamala Harris and President-elect Donald Trump both voiced interest during their campaigns in supporting proposals to eliminate taxes on tips, a controversial policy largely aimed at benefiting America’s service workers.

From Salon

“It’s so absolute attention can be paid to form and alignment,” Hughes says, adding that her clientele ranges from age 12 to 93.

From Los Angeles Times

I need to feel like I know what I’m doing, and they help me feel more assertive and in alignment.

From Los Angeles Times

"I think it is a great progression and keeps the alignment in-between the pathway and the seniors," Titterrell said.

From BBC

Related Words

• adjustment