Align
/əˈlaɪn/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo place or arrange (things) in a straight line or parallel, or in correct relative positions.
/əˈlaɪn/
To bring into line or agreement.
Please align the chairs along the wall.
💡 Simply: To make things straight or match up.
More Examples
The planets aligned perfectly last night.
How It's Used
"The engineer carefully aligned the gears to ensure smooth operation."
"We need to align our strategies with the company's overall goals."
The state of being in correct relative positions.
/əˈlaɪnmənt/
The state of being aligned.
The car's wheel alignment needs to be checked.
💡 Simply: Things being straight or in the correct position.
More Examples
There's a good alignment between their values and ours.
How It's Used
"Achieving proper spinal alignment is crucial in yoga."
Idioms & expressions
in alignment with
Consistent or agreeing with something.
"Their actions are in alignment with company policy."
From Old French *aligner, from a- + ligne "line". The word's meaning has evolved to encompass both physical and metaphorical alignment.
Historically, the word primarily referred to the physical arrangement of objects; its metaphorical use became more prominent in later centuries.
Memory tip
Imagine aligning soldiers in a neat row.