di·ag·o·nal
dī-ˈa-gə-nᵊl 
-ˈag-nəl
1
a
: joining two vertices of a rectilinear figure that are nonadjacent or two vertices of a polyhedral figure that are not in the same face
b
: passing through two nonadjacent edges of a polyhedron
a diagonal plane
2
a
: inclined obliquely from a reference line (such as the vertical)
wood with a diagonal grain
b
: having diagonal markings or parts
a diagonal weave
1
: a diagonal straight line or plane
2
a(1)
: a diagonal direction
(2)
: a diagonal row, arrangement, or pattern
b
: something oriented in diagonal position
3
Synonyms
Examples of diagonal in a Sentence
Adjective
The blanket is covered with diagonal stripes.
the diagonal design ran up the wall all the way from the lower left to the upper right-hand corner
Noun
a design with strong diagonals
the ramp was set at a low diagonal to make it easier for physically challenged patrons
Recent Examples on the Web
Pam Lolley, Southern Living, 29 May 2024
Tanzanite showcases a sharp, linear design with diagonal ventilation line amidships.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 15 May 2024
Dana Santas, CNN, 25 Mar. 2024
For instance, a dagger-like diagonal and the solitary wing of a mythical bird were reserved for royals.
—Hannah Beech, New York Times, 30 June 2023
See all Example Sentences for diagonal 
Adjective
Fresh mint, chopped Directions Toast baguette slices: Cut French baguette into 1/4-inch-thick diagonal slices; place on a large baking sheet.
—Pam Lolley, Southern Living, 29 May 2024
Tanzanite showcases a sharp, linear design with diagonal ventilation line amidships.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 15 May 2024
Noun
Adductors/inside of leg From a forearm plank position with your core engaged for support, slightly spread your legs and open one hip to align the roller on a slight diagonal along your adductors (inner thigh).
—Dana Santas, CNN, 25 Mar. 2024
For instance, a dagger-like diagonal and the solitary wing of a mythical bird were reserved for royals.
—Hannah Beech, New York Times, 30 June 2023
See all Example Sentences for diagonal
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'diagonal.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near diagonal
Cite this Entry
“Diagonal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/diagonal. Accessed 5 Jun. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
diagonal
1 of 2 adjective
di·ag·o·nal
dī-ˈag-ən-ᵊl
-ˈag-nəl
1
: joining two opposite corners of a four-sided figure
2
: running in a slanting direction
diagonally
adverb
-ən-ᵊl-ē
-nə-lē
diagonal
2 of 2 noun1
: a diagonal line or direction
2
: a diagonal row, arrangement, or pattern
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