in-line

American  

[in-lahyn, in-lahyn] / ˌɪnˈlaɪn, ˈɪnˌlaɪn /

adjective

1. (of an internal-combustion engine) having the cylinders ranged side by side in one or more rows along the crankshaft.

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in-line British  

adjective

1. denoting a linked sequence of manufacturing processes

2. denoting an internal-combustion engine having its cylinders arranged in a line

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in line Idioms  

1. Also, in line with . In conformity or agreement; within ordinary or proper limits. For example, The new policy was intended to keep prices in line with their competitors , or It's up to the supervisor to keep the nurses in line . Also see fall in line .

2. Also, on line . Waiting behind others in a row or queue. For example, The children stood in line for their lunches , or There were at least 50 persons on line for opera tickets .

3. in line for . Next in order for, as in He is next in line for the presidency . All of these terms employ line in the sense of “an orderly row or series of persons or objects,” a usage dating from the 1500s.

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Etymology

Origin of in-line

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

It had a 1,971-cubic centimeter, in-line six-cylinder engine, and BMW is still famous for building its flagship in-line six-cylinder today, all over the world.

From The Wall Street Journal

On the call Thursday, he said fiscal-year 2027 would be a year of heavy investment in the country while it brings the business in-line with the broader Dollarama business model.

From The Wall Street Journal

“I think we can all agree the U.S. Consumer is saying he / she is worried, but as always…consuming in-line to above expectations,” wrote Carey Kaufman, U.S. consumer strategist at Jefferies.

From Barron's

Yields edged higher after an in-line PCE inflation report and a better-than-expected consumer-confidence survey.

From The Wall Street Journal

The Bureau of Economic Analysis’ delayed September PCE inflation report showed both core and headline readings that were largely in-line with Wall Street forecasts.

From Barron's

Related Words

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