PERPENDICULAR Synonyms: 26 Similar and Opposite Words

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

The words plumb and vertical are common synonyms of perpendicular . While all three words mean "being at right angles to a base line," 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 'plumb' a more appropriate choice than 'perpendicular'?

While in some cases nearly identical to perpendicular , plumb stresses an exact verticality determined (as with a plumb line) by earth's gravity. // make sure that the wall is plumb

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

While the synonyms vertical and perpendicular are close in meaning, vertical suggests a line or direction rising straight upward toward a zenith. // the side of the cliff is almost vertical

perpendicular

adjective

ˌpər-pən-ˈdi-kyə-lər

Definition of perpendicular next

as in vertical

rising straight up river rafters staring awestruck at the canyon's nearly perpendicular cliffs

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How does the adjective perpendicular differ from other similar words?

The words plumb and vertical are common synonyms of perpendicular. While all three words mean "being at right angles to a base line," 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 plumb a more appropriate choice than perpendicular?

While in some cases nearly identical to perpendicular, plumb stresses an exact verticality determined (as with a plumb line) by earth's gravity.

make sure that the wall is plumb

When is it sensible to use vertical instead of perpendicular?

While the synonyms vertical and perpendicular are close in meaning, vertical suggests a line or direction rising straight upward toward a zenith.

the side of the cliff is almost vertical

Examples 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 perpendicular Europa Clipper’s radar antenna, which sits perpendicular to the solar wings, adds more size still, rising 57.7 ft. from the body of the spacecraft. —

Jeffrey Kluger, TIME, 4 Oct. 2024 Imagine a perpendicular line runs through the center star, then follow it up to the bright, red-looking orb above. —

Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 Sep. 2024 What to know about rip current safety Rip currents are strong and narrow flows of water, usually less than 80 feet wide, that flow toward the ocean away from the shoreline at an acute or perpendicular angle, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric and Administration. —

Melissa Alonso, CNN, 23 June 2024 Behind the dark heap is a chair in a strange position, perpendicular to a table on which sits a large microwave oven, as if someone had been listening to it, with an ear pressed against it, like a radio. —

Annie Ernaux, The New Yorker, 19 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for perpendicular

Recent Examples of Synonyms for perpendicular

Adjective

For larger areas, core aeration, power-raking, shallow tilling, or vertical mowing can be used to prepare the soil and remove thatch.

Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 13 Dec. 2024
Designed by renowned architect Brian Brisbin of BBB Architects, the building will be akin to a vertical forest with over 120 trees planted on terraces to surround residents in nature despite being in the city.

Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 13 Dec. 2024