n.
Variant: also aline · ment
Pronunciation: ə - ' l ī n-m ə nt
Function: noun
Date: 1790
1 : the act of aligning or state of being aligned especially : the proper positioning or state of adjustment of parts (as of a mechanical or electronic device) in relation to each other
2 a : a forming in line b : the line thus formed
3 : the ground plan (as of a railroad or highway) in distinction from the profile
4 : an arrangement of groups or forces in relation to one another <new alignment s within the political party>