rectilinear

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   characterized by a straight line or lines

   Rectilinear patterns in wallpaper.

2. 2
   adj

   In a straight line.

   The crankshaft and connecting rods of an engine convert the rectilinear motion of the pistons to rotary motion of the flywheel.

3. 3
   adj

   Formed from straight lines.

From post-Classical Latin; either from rectilīneāris or from rectilīneus (whence rectiline) + -ar, in both cases ultimately deriving from rectus (“straight”) + līnea (“line”).

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