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

Even then, the Department of Building and Safety warned that the spot widenings would lead to irregular street alignments, “thus hindering maintenance, drainage, and traffic flow,” Manville wrote in his analysis.

From Los Angeles Times

“We just want to feel the same level of safety and be compensated in a way that feels in alignment with other crew positions on sets.”

From Los Angeles Times

In terms of education, there is strong but not complete alignment between Project 2025 and Trump’s statements on education.

From Los Angeles Times

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

The exact alignments and deals are impossible to predict, and much will depend on the individuals appointed to key positions.

From BBC

Related Words

• adjustment