lateral (C1)

adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈlætərəl/

Definition

Moving or extending from the side to the side.

Examples

• The dancers moved laterally across the stage in perfect unison.

• The company is expanding laterally by acquiring smaller businesses in related sectors.

• The doctor examined the patient's lateral movement in their knee joint.

How to Use lateral

lateral thinking (collocation)

Problem-solving method that involves using indirect and creative approaches, viewing a problem from a new direction. — "Her lateral thinking allowed her to find a solution that no one else had considered."

lateral move (collocation)

A change in job or position within an organization that does not involve a promotion or demotion. — "He accepted a lateral move to the marketing department to gain broader experience."

lateral (prepositional phrase)

From the side; sideways. — "The players spread out laterally to cover more ground."

Synonyms of lateral

Words with a similar meaning to lateral:

• sideways
• broad
• transverse
• collateral

Antonyms of lateral

Words with the opposite meaning to lateral:

• medial
• longitudinal

Browse the full Anaversity dictionary