alignment

noun

align·​ment ə-ˈlīn-mənt 

variants or less commonly alinement

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

Examples of alignment in a Sentence

The school has to bring its programs into alignment with state requirements.

New alignments have been created within the political party.

Recent Examples on the Web

The risk is saying yes because the mood feels generous or assuming agreement means alignment. — Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2026

On Monday, Schottenheimer said that Parker would ideally be on the sideline this season, but that the Cowboys will experiment with both options in the preseason to see which alignment is comfortable for everyone involved. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Aug. 2026

To bridge that gap, the parties could seek a more limited set of political commitments covering Ukraine’s alignment and other key security issues for both sides sufficient to secure a cease-fire. — Matt Waldman, Foreign Affairs, 13 Aug. 2026

Worrying about his assignment, alignment and everything that comes with making an NFL debut. — Rick Stroud, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing alignment

• in alignment
• out of alignment

Rhymes for alignment

• alinement
• assignment
• confinement
• consignment
• refinement
• misalignment
• nonalignment
• realignment
• reassignment
• reconsignment

Kids Definition

alignment

noun

align·​ment

variants also alinement

ə-ˈlīn-mənt 

1

a

: the act of aligning : the state of being aligned

b

: the proper adjustment of parts in relation to each other

2

: an arrangement of groups or forces

a new political alignment