Alignment

/əˈlaɪnmənt/

nounIntermediateCommonGeneral

Definitions

1

The act of bringing into a straight line or proper arrangement; a state of being in line.

/əˈlaɪnmənt/

nounneutralIntermediate
General

The state of being in line or properly arranged.

The careful alignment of the gears was essential for the machine's smooth operation.

💡 Simply: Things lined up correctly.

More Examples

2

There was a noticeable misalignment in their political views.

How It's Used

Engineering

"The precise alignment of the engine components is crucial for optimal performance."

Politics

"The two countries sought alignment on foreign policy issues."

Idioms & expressions

in alignment with

Consistent or agreeing with something.

"Their actions are in alignment with company policy."

From Middle English *alignement, from Old French alignement, from aligner "to align," from a- + ligne "line"

The word's use in engineering contexts dates back to the 18th century, reflecting advances in machinery.

Memory tip

Imagine lines aligning perfectly like soldiers in formation.

alignementalinementalighnment

Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written