diagonal Definition
- 1(of a straight line) joining two opposite corners of a square, rectangle, or other straight-sided shape
- 2slanting; at an angle
Using diagonal: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "diagonal" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The diagonal line divides the rectangle into two triangles.
Example
She parked her car diagonally across two parking spaces.
Example
The building's diagonal walls create a unique architectural design.
diagonal Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with diagonal
Example
The tiles were laid on the diagonal to create a visually interesting pattern.
Example
For a fancier presentation, you can cut the sandwiches on the diagonal.
to move in a direction that is slanting or at an angle
Example
In chess, the bishop can move diagonally across the board.
Origins of diagonal
from Late Latin 'diagonalis', from Greek 'diagonios', from dia- 'across' + gonia 'angle'
Summary: diagonal in Brief
The term 'diagonal' [dʌɪˈæɡənəl] refers to a straight line that joins two opposite corners of a square, rectangle, or other straight-sided shape. It also means slanting or at an angle. Examples include 'The diagonal line divides the rectangle into two triangles.' and 'She parked her car diagonally across two parking spaces.' Phrases like 'on the diagonal' and 'cut something on the diagonal' denote actions along a diagonal line.
