straight-line

American  

[streyt-lahyn] / ˈstreɪtˈlaɪn /

adjective

1. Machinery.

   1. noting a machine or mechanism the working parts of which act or are arranged in a straight line.

   2. noting a mechanism for causing one part to move along a straight line.

2. Accounting. denoting uniform allocation, as in calculating the total depreciation over the life of a depreciable asset, dividing that into equal parts, and depreciating each segment at regular intervals.

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straight-line British  

noun

1. (of a machine) having components that are arranged in a row or that move in a straight line when in operation

2. of or relating to a method of depreciation whereby equal charges are made against gross profit for each year of an asset's expected life

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Etymology

Origin of straight-line

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Straight line winds are caused by powerful downdrafts that flow from the base of thunderstorms.

From Science Daily • Nov. 2, 2023

Straight line winds result when rain and hail at high altitudes evaporate and cool the ambient air, which then plummets and, at the surface, spawns intense winds that rush outward.

From Science Daily • Nov. 2, 2023

Straight line, flatline, on and on to more of the same.

From Seattle Times • May 19, 2016

Straight line grid systems makes this an easy and doable project.

From New York Times • Dec. 20, 2014

Straight line plunges in which all of the Jefferson backs shared brought the ball to the Ridgley five-yard line for first down.

From The Mark of the Knife by Ernst, Clayton H.