Perpendicular

/ˌpɜː.pənˈdɪk.jə.lə(ɹ)/ · adjective

Meaning

(geometry) At or forming a right angle (to something)..

Definitions by Sense

1. (geometry) At or forming a right angle (to something).
2. Exactly upright; extending in a straight line toward the centre of the earth, etc.
3. Independent of or irrelevant to each other; orthogonal.
4. (geometry) A line or plane that is perpendicular to another.
5. A device such as a plumb line that is used in making or marking a perpendicular line.
6. (obsolete, slang) A meal eaten at a tavern bar while standing up.

Example Sentences

In most houses, the walls are perpendicular to the floor.

A doorknob of whatever roundish shape is effectively a continuum of levers, with the axis of the latching mechanism—known as the spindle—being the fulcrum about which the turning takes place. Applying a force tangential to the knob is essentially equivalent to applying one perpendicular to a radial line defining the lever.

Hey, I'm not unsabotaging anything! This is completely perpendicular sabotage!

Synonyms for perpendicular

Antonyms for perpendicular

Related Words

Word Forms

• more perpendicular
• most perpendicular
• perpendiculars

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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