alignment

UK: /əˈlaɪnmənt/ US: /əˈlaɪnmənt/ ,(ə līn′mənt)

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026

a•lign•ment /əˈlaɪnmənt/   n. 

1. [uncountable] arrangement in a straight line;
   adjustment so that parts function properly.
2. [countable] a state of agreement or cooperation among groups, nations, etc.;
   alliance.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026

a•lign•ment  (ə līn′mənt), n. 

1. an adjustment to a line;
   arrangement in a straight line.
2. the line or lines so formed.
3. Mechanical Engineering the proper adjustment of the components of an electronic circuit, machine, etc., for coordinated functioning:
   The front wheels of the car are out of alignment.
4. Government a state of agreement or cooperation among persons, groups, nations, etc., with a common cause or viewpoint.
5. a ground plan of a railroad or highway.
6. Archaeology a line or an arrangement of parallel or converging lines of upright stones or menhirs.

Also, alinement. 

• French
• 1780–90; align + -ment; replacing earlier alignement

Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

alignment / əˈlaɪnmənt/ noun

1. arrangement in a straight line
2. the line or lines formed in this manner
3. alliance or union with a party, cause, etc
4. proper or desirable coordination or relation of components
5. a ground plan of a railway, motor road, etc