longways

1 of 2

adverb

1

: lengthwise

the books lie upright, longways, or diagonally on the shelves

—Stephen Spender

2

dancing : in two straight lines

this number is danced longways

longways

2 of 2

noun

"

variants or longways dance or less commonly longway

ˈ⸗ˌ⸗

or longway dance

: a folk dance in which the basic formation is two lines of couples facing each other usually with men on one side and women on the other compare contredance

Word History

Etymology

Adverb

long entry 1 + -ways

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now