alignment
n. C / Un. the way different things are arranged in a straight line or in the correct positions relative to each other. You use this when talking about car wheels, planets, or even people's goals.
n. the arrangement of components in a straight line or in correct relative positions. Often used to describe the configuration of celestial bodies or the mechanical adjustment of parts for optimal performance.
The mechanic checked the wheel alignment on my car.
The rare alignment of five planets in the night sky was visible to the naked eye for several weeks.
Achieving strategic alignment between the marketing and product development teams is essential for ensuring that the final software meets the specific needs of the target audience.
From French alignement, by surface analysis, align + -ment.
Often used with the preposition 'with' or 'of'. In its abstract sense, it frequently appears in the phrase 'in alignment' or 'out of alignment'.