1
: being a mechanical linkage or equivalent device designed to produce or copy motion in a straight line
2
: having the principal parts arranged in a straight line
3
: marked by a uniform spread and especially in equal segments over a given term
straight-line amortization
straight-line depreciation
4
: occurring, measured, or made in or along a straight line
straight-line motion
straight-line extrapolation

Examples of straight-line in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The straight-line distance between the island and the Chinese coast is a little more than 1,800 miles. Nina Turner, Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2024 Due date for individuals and businesses in South Dakota affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding that began on June 16, 2024. Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes, 28 Sep. 2024 Boasting outstanding vision, bounce, tackle-breaking ability, and straight-line speed, the Niners were able to feed him early and establish a physical tone for the game. Dieter Kurtenbach, The Mercury News, 10 Sep. 2024 The hardcore muscle car was designed specifically for straight-line performance. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 5 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for straight-line 

Word History

First Known Use

1772, in the meaning defined at sense 4

Time Traveler
The first known use of straight-line was in 1772

Dictionary Entries Near straight-line

Cite this Entry

“Straight-line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/straight-line. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Legal Definition

straight-line

adjective
: marked by equal payments over a given term
using the straight-line method of depreciation
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!