# laterally

/ˈɫætɝəˌɫi/ (US) · /lˈætəɹəli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/laterally
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

in a way that moves or is placed to the side. You use this to describe things that go from one side to the other rather than up or down.

For teachers: in a direction that is to the side; sideways. Often describes movement or positioning relative to a central axis.

## Examples

- The river flows laterally across the valley.
- The architect designed the building so that the windows open laterally to allow more natural light in.
- The storm caused significant lateral damage to the coastal cliffs, as the high winds pushed water and debris sideways against the rock face.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.