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

Under this alignment of eloquent Mercury and unstoppable Mars in your in-depth 8th house, those connections could use a bit of extra attention. —Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 15 Mar. 2026

The debate comes down, inescapably, to the question of alignment. —Gideon Lewis-Kraus, New Yorker, 14 Mar. 2026

Greater alignment could be possible between partners. —Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 14 Mar. 2026

In numerous surveys and articles, this group (roughly 14-28 years old) consistently cites values-alignment and flexibility as more important than traditional success signals such as titles and promotions. —Amy Lindgren, Twin Cities, 14 Mar. 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