1
: being a mechanical linkage or equivalent device designed to produce or copy motion in a straight line
2
: having the principal parts arranged in a straight line
3
: marked by a uniform spread and especially in equal segments over a given term
straight-line amortization
straight-line depreciation
4
: occurring, measured, or made in or along a straight line
straight-line motion
straight-line extrapolation

Examples of straight-line in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The 23-year-old has always felt comfortable and confident as a straight-line slasher when he’s been put in situations to play off the wings. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 19 Oct. 2025 Fouls during closeouts on jump shots and straight-line pathway plays are two of the points being emphasized this season, and the Hornets got a head start on understanding the rules thanks to having actual NBA officials making the calls during scrimmage sessions. Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 5 Oct. 2025 That means progress is likely to be a complex and ever-changing wave, rather than a straight-line trip. Michael C. Horowitz, Foreign Affairs, 26 Sep. 2025 The three celestial bodies will appear to be within a degree of each other, forming an almost perfect straight-line alignment for some and a tight triangle for others, depending on location. Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for straight-line

Word History

First Known Use

1772, in the meaning defined at sense 4

Time Traveler
The first known use of straight-line was in 1772

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Straight-line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/straight-line. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Legal Definition

straight-line

adjective
: marked by equal payments over a given term
using the straight-line method of depreciation
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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