Horizontal

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Horizontal

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

adjective and noun

Pronunciation

ho-rih-ZON-tul  /ˌhɒrɪˈzɒnt(ə)l/

Definition

As an adjective: parallel to the horizon; level and flat, at right angles to the vertical; extending from side to side rather than up and down. As a noun: a horizontal line, plane, or surface.

Plain meaning

Horizontal means flat and level, going from side to side rather than up and down. A horizontal line goes left to right; a vertical line goes up and down. A person lying down is in a horizontal position. In business, horizontal expansion means expanding across the same level of an industry rather than up or down a supply chain.

Register

Neutral. Horizontal is standard in scientific, technical, architectural, and everyday contexts. It is a precise geometric term whose figurative uses in business and social organisation are also well established.