sightline

American  

[sahyt-lahyn] / ˈsaɪtˌlaɪn /

Or sight line

noun

1. any of the lines of sight between the spectators and the stage or playing area in a theater, stadium, etc..

   Some of the sightlines are blocked by columns.

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sightline British  

/ ˈsaɪtˌlaɪn /

noun

1. an uninterrupted line of vision, as in a theatre, etc, or from a vehicle joining a road

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Etymology

Origin of sightline

First recorded in 1915–20; sight + line ¹

Example Sentences

Preservationists have criticized the plan as disrupting a sacred sightline between the memorials to Abraham Lincoln and Robert E. Lee, designed as a statement of unity after the Civil War.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

It’s not hard to imagine why Instagram might boost @tinyhouseperfect’s computer visions into my sightline.

From New York Times • Feb. 4, 2024

To dole out your decorating dollar and storage space efficiently, Conner recommends choosing spots with the strongest sightline in the room, either placed at eye level or make a natural focal point.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 1, 2023

Standard seats will be available at the usual cost of a ticket, while preferred sightline seats, which include select seats in the middle of the auditorium, will be priced higher.

From Reuters • Feb. 6, 2023

We've come to an intersection where three streets cross each other, veining off at odd angles so that the sightline cuts off after less than twenty-five meters.

From "Girl in the Blue Coat" by Monica Hesse