align

align - verb

aligns; aligned; aligning

Learner's definition of ALIGN

1 : to arrange things so that they form a line or are in proper position

[+ object]

• The storekeeper carefully aligned [=lined up] the cans on the shelf.
• He aligned the two holes so he could put the screw through them.
• The text is aligned [=in line] with the bottom of the picture.
• The two parts of the machine are not properly aligned.

[no object]

• The two parts of the machine don't align [=line up] properly.
• The text aligns with the bottom of the picture.

2 [+ object] : to change (something) so that it agrees with or matches something else

• The schools had to align their programs with state requirements.

3 : to join a group that is supporting or opposing something

[+ object]

• He has aligned himself with the protesters. [=he has joined the protesters]

[no object]

• She is aligning with other senators to oppose his nomination.