Horizontally: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing something positioned or moving along the horizon or a similar plane parallel to the ground.

• The picture should be hung horizontally
• The ship sailed horizontally across the sea

Used when referring to a surface or line that is straight and even, typically in relation to gravity. It can also mean the same height or status in comparison to something else.

• Make sure the shelf is level
• The water in the glass is level with the rim

Describes a surface that is even and without any bumps or slopes. It can also refer to something that is laid out smoothly.

• The table surface is flat
• Please spread the blanket flat on the ground

Describes two or more lines or surfaces that are always the same distance apart and never meet, often in geometrical or technical contexts.

• The two roads run parallel to each other
• The keyboard is parallel to the edge of the desk

Used to describe something aligned parallel to the horizon or moving in a left-to-right direction.

• The picture should be hung horizontally on the wall
• The machine moves the product horizontally along the belt

Used to describe a movement or position to the left or right side, often used when something or someone moves or is placed on a side rather than forward or backward.

• The crab scuttled sideways along the shore
• He glanced sideways at the door to check if anyone was coming

Used to describe movement from one side of something to the other, typically on a flat surface.

• She walked across the street
• The bridge stretches across the river