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.
Spotlight player: Maryland WR Tai Felton, third round, No. 102 Felton is a straight-line speed receiver who can scoot with a 4.37-second 40 time. Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2025 Due date for individuals and businesses affected by wildfires and straight-line winds in southern California that began on January 7, 2025. Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025 Filers also have the option to request additional extensions to Oct. 15, but interest will accrue if any money due isn’t paid by May 1. Individuals and businesses in Southern California affected by wildfires and straight-line winds also qualify for automatic extensions because of disaster. Cora Lewis, Los Angeles Times, 19 Apr. 2025 In an Ole Miss offense with plenty of RPOs and designed QB runs, Dart displayed good straight-line speed and toughness to take hits to create. Mike Defabo, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Straight-line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/straight-line. Accessed 5 May. 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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