Main Entry: align·ment

Variant(s): also aline·ment \ə-ˈlīn-mənt\

Function: noun

Date: 1790

1 : the act of aligning or state of being aligned; especially : the proper positioning or state of adjustment of parts (as of a mechanical or electronic device) in relation to each other
2 a : a forming in line b : the line thus formed
3 : the ground plan (as of a railroad or highway) in distinction from the profile
4 : an arrangement of groups or forces in relation to one another <new alignments within the political party>