Lateral

ˈlæt.ər.əl

Meaning & Definition

noun

A lateral part or structure; something that is side by side.

The river has many laterals that branch off into smaller streams.

A lateral pass in sports, where the ball is thrown parallel to the line of scrimmage.

The quarterback executed a lateral to his teammate to evade the defenders.

adjective

Relating to the side; situated at or on the side.

The lateral view of the building shows its unique architectural design.

Moving or extending from side to side.

He made a lateral move to a different department within the company.

In anatomical terms, relating to the sides of the body or a structure.

The lateral muscles of the abdomen are important for maintaining stability.

From Latin 'lateralis', meaning 'of the side' or 'on the side'.

lateral thinking

A method of solving problems using an indirect and creative approach.

lateral flow test

A rapid testing method that provides results on the side of a device.

lateralization

The tendency for certain functions or cognitive processes to be more dominant in one hemisphere of the brain.

collateral

Relating to or situated at the side; also refers to a secondary form of support or security.

Used in sports to refer to side passes or movements.

He made a lateral pass during the game that opened up the field.