diagonal

[dʌɪˈæɡənəl]

diagonal Definition

• 1. (of a straight line) joining two opposite corners of a square, rectangle, or other straight-sided shape
• 2. slanting; 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

Synonyms for diagonal

• slanted
• angled
• oblique
• sloping
• tilted

Antonyms for diagonal

• straight
• level
• horizontal

Phrases with diagonal

• on the diagonal

  along a diagonal line

  Example

  The tiles were laid on the diagonal to create a visually interesting pattern.

• cut something on the diagonal

  to slice something at an angle rather than straight across

  Example

  For a fancier presentation, you can cut the sandwiches on the diagonal.

• move diagonally

  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'

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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.