align
uh-LAYN
/əˈlaɪn/
To place or arrange in a straight line, or to bring components into agreement or alliance.
Can refer to physical objects (aligning wheels) or abstract concepts (aligning corporate values with actions).
The story behind the word. Derived from the Old French verb 'aligner', which literally meant 'to range in a line'. It entered English in the late 17th century, primarily as a military term for lining up troops, before expanding to describe abstract agreement in business and politics.
Word relationships
- coordinate: Coordinate focuses on timing and logistics of activities, while align focuses on matching directions, values, or positions.
- deviate: Deviate means to depart from an established course, line, or agreement.
Commonly confused with
- allied: Allied is an adjective meaning joined in a confederation, whereas align is the active verb of bringing things into agreement or a straight line.
Word family
- alignment (noun): Arrangement in a straight line, or agreement/alliance.
Collocations
- align interests
- align strategic goals
- perfectly aligned
Example sentences
- "The CEO worked hard to align the company's daily operations with its long-term environmental goals." Corporate mission
- "Make sure to align the edges of the paper before feeding it into the printer." Physical alignment
Memory hook
Think of 'a line'. To align is to bring everything into 'a line'. Bring into a straight line.
When not to use
Do not use when simply joining two things together without any concern for their relative position or agreement.
Fun facts
- The Great Pyramid of Giza is famous for its near-perfect alignment with the cardinal points of the compass.
Related words
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