align
uh-LYN
Align (verb) means to arrange things in a straight line or so their edges match up. Example: “Make sure the shelves align before you screw them in.”
verb
1
To arrange things in a straight line or so their edges match up.
"Make sure the shelves align before you screw them in."
2
To bring into agreement or cooperation with a person, group, or idea.
"The new manager aligned the team's goals with the company's mission."
"Her values align closely with those of the charity she volunteers for."
How to use align
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo line things up physically, or to bring ideas, goals, or people into agreement.
Common pairings
align with
align the wheels
align priorities
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- aligns
- Past tense
- aligned
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Make sure the shelves _____ before you screw them in.
Etymology
From French aligner, from Latin lineare ("to make straight"), from linea ("line").
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for align
See all rhymes for align →Frequently asked questions
What does “align” mean?
The word “align” means to arrange things in a straight line or so their edges match up. In plain terms, to line things up physically, or to bring ideas, goals, or people into agreement.
How do you pronounce “align”?
“Align” is pronounced uh-LYN (/əˈlaɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “align” in a sentence?
Here is “align” used in a sentence: “Make sure the shelves align before you screw them in.”
What part of speech is “align”?
“Align” is a verb.
Where does the word “align” come from?
The word “align” comes from Latin. From French aligner, from Latin lineare ("to make straight"), from linea ("line").
Is “align” a common word?
“Align” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “align” have?
“Align” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to arrange things in a straight line or so their edges match up.
What is the difference between "align" and "conform"?
"Align" suggests actively bringing things into agreement or straight arrangement, often implying cooperation or adjustment on both sides, while "conform" suggests matching an existing standard or expectation. For example, two teams can align their goals together, whereas an individual conforms to rules already set by others.
Is "align with" or "align to" the correct preposition?
"Align with" is the more common and natural choice, especially when describing cooperation or agreement between people, groups, or ideas, as in "align with company goals." "Align to" is also used, particularly in technical or physical contexts describing arrangement relative to a fixed reference point.
How is "align" used in a business context?
In business, "align" often means bringing people, strategies, or departments into agreement or cooperation, as in "align stakeholders" or "align the team's priorities." This figurative use extends the word's core meaning of arranging things so they match up or work together.
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