straight-line

adjective

ˈstrāt-ˈlīn 

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

Tornado damage often has a chaotic appearance, according to NWS, whereas straight-line winds usually uproot trees in the same direction. —John Tufts, The Indianapolis Star, 10 July 2024

In individual skating drills, his straight-line power and control on his edges were instantly noticeable. —Bailey Johnson, Washington Post, 7 July 2024

It’s designed to create a straight-line path to the baseball while keeping the swing plane level. —Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 4 July 2024

Large hail and damaging straight-line winds will be the primary hazards. —Robert A. Cronkleton, Kansas City Star, 3 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Legal Definition

straight-line

adjective

: marked by equal payments over a given term

using the straight-line method of depreciation