Line Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
➖
line
[laɪn ]
Definitions
communication
A long, narrow mark or band.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| line |
Used to describe a long, narrow mark or band, usually in everyday or general contexts.
|
| stroke |
Used to describe a single movement of a brush, pen, or tool when making a mark, often in the context of art or writing.
|
| stripe |
Used to describe a long, narrow band of color, typically found on clothing, animals, or other objects.
|
| streak |
Used to describe a long, thin mark that is different in color or texture from its surroundings, often in the context of stains or light.
|
Examples of usage
- Draw a straight line on the paper.
- There was a long line of people waiting outside the store.
- The line on the horizon seemed to stretch to infinity.
queue
A row of people or vehicles waiting for their turn.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| line |
Used to denote a series of people or things arranged in a straight row, often for organizational purposes or waiting for something.
|
| queue |
Commonly used in British English to describe people or vehicles waiting in line, often in a more formal or structured way. Can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation when emphasizing waiting or delays.
|
| lineup |
Typically describes an arrangement of people or objects in a specific order, often related to events, performances, or investigations.
|
| file |
Often used in a more formal or organized setting, especially to describe people or things arranged one after another, such as in a clerical or military context.
|
Examples of usage
- We stood in line for hours to get tickets to the concert.
- The line at the grocery store was moving slowly.
- There was a long line of cars on the highway.
marking
To cover the inner surface of (something) with a layer.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| line |
Used when referring to drawing or marking a long, narrow mark or band. Also used when referring to a queue of people or things.
|
| cover |
General term for placing something over or on top of something else to protect it, conceal it, or hide it.
|
| coat |
Used when talking about applying a thin layer of a substance over something, especially in terms of painting or cooking.
|
| overlay |
Used when referring to placing something on top of something else, especially when it is transparent or semi-transparent, so both layers are visible.
|
Examples of usage
- You need to line the baking pan with parchment paper before pouring the batter.
- The walls were lined with bookshelves.
- She lined her eyes with black eyeliner.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Mathematics
- In geometry, a line is defined as a straight one-dimensional figure that extends infinitely in both directions.
- Lines can represent relationships in algebra, where they are often graphed on a coordinate plane.
- A line can have different characteristics, like being horizontal, vertical, or diagonal, affecting its interaction with other shapes.
Art
- Artists use lines to create drawings; they can express movement, energy, and emotions depending on their thickness and style.
- In art, outlines often define shapes, while loose lines can suggest texture or depth.
- The famous artist Pablo Picasso often created entire works using only simple lines, demonstrating their power in visual storytelling.
Literature
- In poetry, a line refers to a single row of words that may have a particular rhythm or meter.
- Famous lines from literature are often quoted or referenced, showcasing their importance in conveying themes and emotions.
- Writers sometimes play with the concept of 'lines' to explore boundaries, limits, and connections between characters.
Technology
- In programming, 'line' can refer to a line of code, which is a single instruction that a computer can execute.
- Graphical interfaces use lines to connect objects, creating a visual representation of relationships, such as in flowcharts or network diagrams.
- Telecommunication lines represent the physical connections that allow data to travel over distances, crucial for internet and phone services.
Origin of 'line'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'line' comes from the Latin word 'linea,' meaning 'linen thread' or 'string'.
- Over time, the meaning expanded to include anything that resembles a straight path or mark.
- In old French, 'line' evolved to describe a straight mark, further shaping how we understand the word today.
The word 'line' originated from Middle English, from Old English 'līne', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'lijn' and German 'Leine'. The sense 'limit of a shape' and 'cord, rope' derive from Latin 'linea' meaning 'linen thread, string, line'. Over time, the word evolved to encompass various meanings related to marking, communication, and alignment.
See also: delineate, lineage, lineal, linear, lineated, lined, linen, lines, lineup, lining, online, outline, rectilinear, underline, underlining.