alignment

noun

align·​ment ə-ˈlīn-mənt 

variants or less commonly alinement

1

: the act of aligning or state of being aligned

especially : the proper positioning or state of adjustment of parts (as of a mechanical or electronic device) in relation to each other

2

a

: a forming in line

b

: the line thus formed

3

: the ground plan (as of a railroad or highway) in distinction from the profile

4

: an arrangement of groups or forces in relation to one another

new alignments within the political party

Examples of alignment in a Sentence

The school has to bring its programs into alignment with state requirements.

New alignments have been created within the political party.

Recent Examples on the Web

These countries can offer skilled, cost-effective technology talent and are attractive due to cultural similarities, time zone alignment and favorable educational infrastructure. —Daniel Pena, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024

Lukashenko's request underscores Belarus's alignment with Russia amid ongoing regional conflicts and highlights the increasing militarization in Eastern Europe. —Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024

When planning this content, the editorial team may find alignment with a funding partner on the topic and the headline of the article but the article is not subject to any client review in advance of its publish date. —theweek, 10 Dec. 2024

In other words, a person’s prosthetic limb could potentially be brought into close alignment with their phantom limb. —Rivka Galchen, The New Yorker, 9 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing alignment

• in alignment
• out of alignment

Kids Definition

alignment

noun

align·​ment

variants also alinement

ə-ˈlīn-mənt 

1

a

: the act of aligning : the state of being aligned

b

: the proper adjustment of parts in relation to each other

2

: an arrangement of groups or forces

a new political alignment