1
: being a mechanical linkage or equivalent device designed to produce or copy motion in a straight line
2
: having the principal parts arranged in a straight line
3
: marked by a uniform spread and especially in equal segments over a given term
straight-line amortization
straight-line depreciation
4
: occurring, measured, or made in or along a straight line
straight-line motion
straight-line extrapolation

Examples of straight-line in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Duran impresses for his hardworking, straight-line game. Scott Wheeler, The Athletic, 10 Jan. 2025 Primary threats include straight-line, damaging winds and a possible isolated tornado. Erin Couch, The Enquirer, 29 Dec. 2024 Other tornadoes have been reported, along with damaging straight-line winds, hail and flash flooding in parts of Mississippi, Louisiana and Alabama. Andrew Freedman, Axios, 28 Dec. 2024 Both my parents voted straight-line red at every election. Jim Barach, Orlando Sentinel, 1 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for straight-line 

Word History

First Known Use

1772, in the meaning defined at sense 4

Time Traveler
The first known use of straight-line was in 1772

Dictionary Entries Near straight-line

Cite this Entry

“Straight-line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/straight-line. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Legal Definition

straight-line

adjective
: marked by equal payments over a given term
using the straight-line method of depreciation
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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