Lengthwise: meaning, definitions and examples

📏
Add to dictionary

lengthwise

 

[ˈlɛŋθˌwaɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

measurements

Lengthwise refers to the direction or orientation that is parallel to the length of an object. It is often used to describe how something is being measured or cut along its longer side.

Synonyms

along the length, longitudinally.

Examples of usage

  • The fabric was cut lengthwise to create narrow strips.
  • We arranged the furniture lengthwise along the wall.
  • He placed the book lengthwise on the shelf.
Context #2 | Adjective

orientation

As an adjective, lengthwise can describe an object or layout that follows the length rather than the width. This can apply to various situations such as design, construction, or positioning.

Synonyms

lengthy, longitudinal.

Examples of usage

  • The lengthwise arrangement of the beams ensured stability.
  • The table was lengthwise positioned to fit the space.
  • She preferred a lengthwise layout for her garden.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word combines 'length', which comes from Old English 'lengð', meaning distance or extent, with the suffix '-wise' indicating direction or manner.
  • The usage of 'wise' in English often indicates a manner, such as 'clockwise' meaning in the same direction as a clock's hands.

Geometry

  • In geometry, understanding lengthwise can help define dimensions of shapes, where length typically refers to the longest measurement.
  • Architects and builders often consider lengthwise arrangements when planning layouts and space utilization.

Textiles

  • In sewing and textiles, cutting fabric lengthwise is essential for using the grain of the fabric, which affects the drape and durability.
  • Many clothing patterns specify cutting pieces lengthwise to ensure the fabric behaves correctly when worn.

Culinary

  • In cooking, slicing vegetables lengthwise allows for even cooking and can change how they absorb flavors.
  • When preparing certain dishes, such as lasagna, ingredients are often layered lengthwise for better flavor distribution.

Sports

  • In many sports, such as basketball and soccer, players often move lengthwise down the field or court to effectively make plays.
  • Coaches discuss strategies that involve moving the ball lengthwise to create opportunities for scoring.

Translations

Translations of the word "lengthwise" in other languages:

🇵🇹 no sentido do comprimento

🇮🇳 लंबाई में

🇩🇪 längs

🇮🇩 secara panjang

🇺🇦 по довжині

🇵🇱 wzdłuż

🇯🇵 長さ方向で

🇫🇷 dans le sens de la longueur

🇪🇸 en sentido de longitud

🇹🇷 uzunluk açısından

🇰🇷 길이 방향으로

🇸🇦 على طول

🇨🇿 podle délky

🇸🇰 dĺžkovo

🇨🇳 按长度

🇸🇮 v dolžini

🇮🇸 að lengd

🇰🇿 ұзындығына қарай

🇬🇪 სიგრძით

🇦🇿 uzunluq üzrə

🇲🇽 en sentido de longitud

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,890, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.