alignment

American  

[uh-lahyn-muhnt] / əˈlaɪn mənt /

Also alinement

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.

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alignment British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• nonalinement
  noun
• realignment
  noun
• self-alignment
  noun
• self-alinement
  noun

Etymology

Origin of alignment

First recorded in 1780–90; align + -ment; replacing earlier alignement, from French

Explanation

The noun alignment refers to the correct positioning of something. If you check the alignment of your feet when running, you're checking to make sure they're not pointing to either side, but going straight ahead. Alignment has to do with adjusting something so it's in the right place. If you take your car in for a wheel alignment, the mechanic will make sure the wheels are on straight. Alignment can also mean following directions or being in agreement. Your school has to act in alignment with state education rules. If you and your brother both believe that poodles should be banned in your town, then you are in alignment on the issue of poodles.

Example Sentences

Precise alignment is also not usually necessary since multimode fibers can already carry large amounts of energy.

From Science Daily • Apr. 28, 2026

“We are encouraged by the numerous additional growth opportunities we see with our current customers, as well as a general alignment toward a more standard contractual arrangement,” Zartler said.

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

At the City Council hearing this month, Mayor John Heilman said the city lacks authority when its zoning laws are not in alignment with California state laws, Beverly Press & Park La Brea News reported.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

"Climate change is moving the wind out of alignment with the runways, and thus reducing the useful headwind," he adds.

From BBC • Apr. 19, 2026

"Engine alignment perfect. Communications five by five. We are ready for preflight checklist, Commander."

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir

Related Words

• adjustment