English Reference

Word

rectangular

Phoneticsrec·tan·gu·lar, stress on the second syllable

US/ɹɛkˈtæŋɡjəɫɝ/

UK/ɹɛktˈænɡjʊlɐ/

Definitions

01shape

A2 · Elementary Mathematics

adj. having a shape like a rectangle, with four straight sides and four right angles.

adj. having the properties of a rectangle, specifically a quadrilateral with four right angles and equal opposite sides.

“The dining table is rectangular, so it fits perfectly against the long wall.”

“The architect designed a series of rectangular glass modules that could be stacked to create a modern office complex.”

Usage

Usually non-gradable; an object is either rectangular or it is not.

Synonyms

oblongfour-sided

Antonyms

circularround

02at right angles

C1 · Advanced Mathematics Technical

adj. having parts or lines that meet at ninety-degree angles.

adj. characterised by axes or components that intersect at right angles.

“The city streets were laid out in a rectangular grid pattern.”

“The data was plotted using a rectangular coordinate system to ensure the relationship between the variables remained clear and measurable.”

Usage

Commonly used in mathematics and engineering to describe coordinate systems.

Synonyms

orthogonalright-angled

Word family

NOUN

ADJECTIVE

rectangular(A2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Frequent
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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