realign

British  

/ ˌriːəˈlaɪn /

verb

1. to change or put back to a new or former place or position

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Explanation

When you realign something, you return it to a former position or place. If you break your arm roller skating, a doctor will have to set the bone, or realign it, before she puts on a cast. We realign things physically when we line them back up or restore them to a previous balance. The alignment on your car is what makes it drive straight — all four wheels should be perfectly lined up. If they're not, a mechanic can realign them. We can also realign things figuratively, like when a political party realigns itself, or attempts to line its positions up with what's important to voters.

Example Sentences

A surefire sign of a sports star who wants to achieve true greatness is the ability to recalibrate, realign and reach their next goal.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

The company is reducing and restructuring roles across the company to optimize operations and realign the company toward a new brand-centric operating model, a Mattel spokesperson told The Times.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

The Chinese government on Wednesday said Its exports exceeded imports by $1.19 trillion, up almost 20% year over year and demonstrating China’s ability to realign its export markets.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 14, 2026

European defense stocks are moving into the spotlight as geopolitics and fiscal priorities realign on both sides of the Atlantic.

From Barron's • Jan. 9, 2026

Eva’s hand moved snail-like down her thigh toward her stump, but stopped short of it to realign a pleat.

From "Sula" by Toni Morrison

Related Words

• readjust
• reorganize
• reorient