VERTICAL Synonyms: 26 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'vertical' differ from other similar words?

The words perpendicular and plumb are common synonyms of vertical . While all three words mean "being at right angles to a base line," vertical suggests a line or direction rising straight upward toward a zenith. // the side of the cliff is almost vertical

Q: When could 'perpendicular' be used to replace 'vertical'?

The words perpendicular and vertical are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, perpendicular may stress the straightness of a line making a right angle with any other line, not necessarily a horizontal one. // the parallel bars are perpendicular to the support posts

Q: When is it sensible to use 'plumb' instead of 'vertical'?

While the synonyms plumb and vertical are close in meaning, plumb stresses an exact verticality determined (as with a plumb line) by earth's gravity. // make sure that the wall is plumb

vertical

adjective

ˈvər-ti-kəl

Definition of vertical next

as in standing

rising straight up a vertical cliff face

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective vertical differ from other similar words?

The words perpendicular and plumb are common synonyms of vertical. While all three words mean "being at right angles to a base line," vertical suggests a line or direction rising straight upward toward a zenith.

the side of the cliff is almost vertical

When could perpendicular be used to replace vertical?

The words perpendicular and vertical are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, perpendicular may stress the straightness of a line making a right angle with any other line, not necessarily a horizontal one.

the parallel bars are perpendicular to the support posts

When is it sensible to use plumb instead of vertical?

While the synonyms plumb and vertical are close in meaning, plumb stresses an exact verticality determined (as with a plumb line) by earth's gravity.

make sure that the wall is plumb

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of vertical On the center pier — a vertical support structure — five out of the six timber beams showed severe decay. —

Nick Rosenberger, Idaho Statesman, 1 Feb. 2025 The high-speed detachable triple chair, which was installed in summer 2023, has a vertical rise of 521 feet and can transport up to 1,800 riders every hour. —

Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 27 Jan. 2025 For such an energetic and vertical player, runs like that one should net him many more. —

George Caulkin, The Athletic, 25 Jan. 2025 Industry insiders are divided over whether NBCU’s restructuring would usher another wave of vertical integration. —

Peter White, Deadline, 24 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for vertical

Recent Examples of Synonyms for vertical

Adjective

Emotional moments follow, including a performance that earned a standing ovation from the judges.

— Jonathan Granoff, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025
Republicans gave a standing ovation in the chamber when Vice President Harris, who lost the election, announced Trump’s official victory.

— The Hill Staff, The Hill, 7 Jan. 2025