align

[ uh-lahyn ]

verb (used with object)

1. to arrange in a straight line; adjust according to a line.

   Synonyms: straighten

2. to bring into a line or alignment.

   Synonyms: straighten

3. to bring into cooperation or agreement with a particular group, party, cause, etc.:

   He aligned himself with the liberals.

4. to adjust (two or more components of an electronic circuit) to improve the response over a frequency band, as to align the tuned circuits of a radio receiver for proper tracking throughout its frequency range, or a television receiver for appropriate wide-band responses.

verb (used without object)

1. to fall or come into line; be in line.
2. to join with others in a cause.

align

/ əˈlaɪn /

verb

1. to place or become placed in a line
2. to bring (components or parts, such as the wheels of a car) into proper or desirable coordination or relation
3. trusually foll bywith to bring (a person, country, etc) into agreement or cooperation with the policy, etc of another person or group
4. tr psychol to integrate or harmonize the aims, practices, etc of a group
5. usually foll by with psychol to identify with or match the behaviour, thoughts, etc of another person

Other Words From

• a·lign·er noun
• re·a·lign verb
• self-a·lign·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of align¹

First recorded in 1685–95; from French aligner, equivalent to a- “toward” + ligner, from Latin līneāre, derivative of līnea “line”; a- ⁵, line ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of align¹

C17: from Old French aligner, from à ligne into line

Example Sentences

Lamirand took steps to protect her mental health by cutting social media ties with people whose values aren’t aligned with hers.

From Los Angeles Times

California voters are heavily Democratic and a high minimum wage generally aligns with left-wing values, but voters on both sides of the aisle didn’t adhere to typical party-line trends when it came to Proposition 32.

From Los Angeles Times

One study found that up to 50% of patients with chronic low back pain are receiving inappropriate care that does not align with best practice guidelines.

From Salon

It was found that the model's decision-making process aligned consistently with clinical preferences.

From Science Daily

“We continue to allow our party to align ourselves with the wealthiest few and everyday people are beginning to take notice.”

From Salon

Related Words

• adjust
• coordinate
• regulate