Vertical: meaning, definitions and examples

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vertical

[ˈvəːtɪk(ə)l ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

line

perpendicular to the plane of the horizon or to a primary axis

Synonyms

plumb, straight, upright.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vertical	Use 'vertical' when describing anything that goes straight up and down, like a line, structure, or position. This term is often used in technical, architectural, or scientific contexts. The skyscraper has a vertical design The ladder is positioned vertically against the wall
upright	'Upright' is used to describe a position where something is standing up, often referring to people or objects that naturally stand vertically. It can also carry a connotation of being morally good. The vase was knocked over but is now upright again She sat upright in her chair
straight	Use 'straight' to describe something that has no bends or curves. It is a more general term and can apply to both vertical and horizontal orientations. Make sure the picture is hanging straight He drew a straight line on the paper
plumb	'Plumb' is often used in construction or engineering to describe something that is perfectly vertical, usually achieved with the help of a plumb line or level. It implies precision and accuracy. The carpenter ensured the door frame was plumb Is that wall plumb?

Examples of usage

The building had a vertical design, with tall, narrow windows stretching from floor to ceiling.
The vertical lines on the graph represent the y-axis.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

business

a vertical line or plane

Synonyms

perpendicular, plumb, upright.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vertical	Use when describing something that stands straight up from the ground or is aligned with the direction of gravity. It is commonly used in geometry and everyday language. The skyscraper rises vertical into the sky. Draw a vertical line on the paper.
perpendicular	Use when describing two lines or surfaces that meet at a right angle (90 degrees). It is often used in geometry and technical settings. The walls are perpendicular to the floor. The road intersects the main street at a perpendicular angle.
upright	Use to describe something standing up straight, often implying good posture or moral integrity. Commonly used in everyday language and moral contexts. She sat upright in her chair. He is known as an upright and honest person.
plumb	Use when describing something exactly vertical or true in terms of alignment. This word is often used in construction or carpentry. Ensure that the post is plumb before securing it. The carpenter used a plumb bob to check the alignment of the wall.

Examples of usage

The company is considering a vertical merger with a supplier to streamline production processes.
Vertical integration involves owning the entire supply chain from raw materials to distribution.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'verticalis', meaning 'perpendicular' or 'of the heavens'.
In Latin, 'vertex' means 'highest point', which reflects how something vertical reaches towards the sky.
The term was adopted into English in the late 15th century, primarily in architectural contexts.

Science

In physics, vertical refers to the direction of gravity, which pulls objects straight down toward the Earth.
Many structures, like bridges and buildings, must have vertical components for stability against forces.
The concept is essential in mathematics, particularly in geometry, where vertical lines are perpendicular to horizontal ones.

Art and Design

Vertical lines in art often convey strength and stability, influencing how viewers perceive the artwork.
Architectural designs frequently utilize vertical elements to create a sense of height and grandeur in buildings.
In photography, vertical framing can enhance the focus on tall subjects, contrasting with horizontal compositions.

Cultural References

Vertical gardens, a modern trend in urban spaces, allow plants to grow up walls, maximizing limited space.
Vertical dance, a performance art that involves moving up and down surfaces, like walls, has gained popularity in contemporary dance scenes.
In sports like pole vaulting, athletes must go vertical to clear a bar, showcasing impressive strength and technique.

Psychology

Studies suggest that vertical orientations in images can invoke feelings of aspiration or hope, impacting mood.
Vertical movement, like climbing, is associated with achieving goals and progress in psychological contexts.
The concept of 'vertical space' in social hierarchies can influence perceptions of power and authority in various cultures.

Translations

Translations of the word "vertical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vertical

🇮🇳 वर्टिकल

🇩🇪 vertikal

🇮🇩 vertikal

🇺🇦 вертикальний

🇵🇱 pionowy

🇯🇵 垂直

🇫🇷 vertical

🇪🇸 vertical

🇹🇷 dikey

🇰🇷 수직

🇸🇦 عمودي

🇨🇿 vertikální

🇸🇰 vertikálny

🇨🇳 垂直

🇸🇮 vertikalno

🇮🇸 lóðrétt

🇰🇿 тік

🇬🇪 ვერტიკალური

🇦🇿 şaquli

🇲🇽 vertical

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,108, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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2105 defendants
2106 situations
2107 escape
2108 vertical
2109 realized
2110 facility
2111 ideal
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