rectilinear

Or rec·ti·lin·e·al

[rek-tl-in-ee-er]

adjective

1. forming a straight line.

2. formed by straight lines.

3. characterized by straight lines.

4. moving in a straight line.

rectilinear

/ ˌrɛktɪˈlɪnɪə /

adjective

1. in, moving in, or characterized by a straight line or lines

   the rectilinear propagation of light

2. consisting of, bounded by, or formed by a straight line or lines

rectilinear

1. Relating to, consisting of, or moving in a straight line or lines.

Other Word Forms

• rectilinearly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of rectilinear¹

1650–60; < Late Latin rēctilīne ( us ) ( rēcti- recti- + līne ( a ) line ¹ + -us adj. suffix) + -ar ¹

Example Sentences

Their curves contrast with the angularity of most spaces and depart from the conventional rectilinear profile of sofas.

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The pattern’s strict rectilinear geometry creates a stark contrast with organic facial features, vivifying the otherworldly human form.

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Scholl explains that At Attin features a rectilinear grid plan city center, wrapped by suburbia in a more circular pattern that “is recognizable from space.”

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The stable but slightly horizontal rectilinear shape hints at landscape while helping to focus the eye.

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The brightly lighted curve visually erased the sharp, angled edge that made any rectilinear painting into a figure standing against the wall’s ground.

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Related Words

• consecutive 
• nonstop 
• short 
• smooth 
• solid 
• straightforward 
• successive 
• true