perpendicular
A perpendicular is a line that meets or crosses another line at a 90-degree angle. It is used in science and math to describe two lines that are perfectly square to each other.
Examples
3 of 5The carpenter used a tool to make sure the wall was a perfect perpendicular to the floor.
The carpenter used a tool to ensure the wall was at a 90-degree angle to the floor.
In the diagram, please draw a perpendicular from point A to the base line.
In the drawing, please draw a line at a right angle from point A to the bottom line.
You need to hold the camera at a perpendicular to the ground for this shot.
You need to hold the camera straight up at a right angle to the ground.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Look at the capital letter 'T'. The vertical line is perpendicular to the horizontal line at the top.
Quick Quiz
To create a perfect square, you must draw a line that is ______ to the base.
Correct!
The correct answer is: perpendicular
Examples
The carpenter used a tool to make sure the wall was a perfect perpendicular to the floor.
everydayThe carpenter used a tool to ensure the wall was at a 90-degree angle to the floor.
In the diagram, please draw a perpendicular from point A to the base line.
formalIn the drawing, please draw a line at a right angle from point A to the bottom line.
You need to hold the camera at a perpendicular to the ground for this shot.
informalYou need to hold the camera straight up at a right angle to the ground.
The theorem requires us to calculate the length of the perpendicular dropped from the vertex.
academicThe math rule requires us to find the length of the 90-degree line coming down from the top corner.
Our architectural plan shows a perpendicular connecting the main hall to the east wing.
businessOur building plan shows a line at a right angle connecting the main hall and the east section.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
at a perpendicular
positioned at a 90-degree angle
out of perpendicular
not straight or not at a right angle
the perpendicular
the vertical line in a geometric construction
Often Confused With
Parallel lines never touch, while perpendicular lines cross at exactly 90 degrees.
Vertical means straight up and down relative to the earth; perpendicular can be at any orientation as long as it is 90 degrees to another line.
Usage Notes
While 'perpendicular' is often used as an adjective, as a noun it refers specifically to a line that is at a right angle to another. It is very common in geometry and construction contexts.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'perpendicular' when they simply mean 'vertical' or 'straight'. Remember it always describes a relationship between two lines.
Memory Tip
Look at the capital letter 'T'. The vertical line is perpendicular to the horizontal line at the top.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'perpendicularis', referring to a plumb line used by builders to find a vertical direction.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
The concept of the perpendicular is foundational to global architecture, ensuring that buildings stand stable and upright.
Quick Quiz
To create a perfect square, you must draw a line that is ______ to the base.
Correct!
The correct answer is: perpendicular
Related Vocabulary
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perimeter
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