Definition

To put something out of alignment or to become misaligned.

Example

The wheels of the car began to dealign after hitting the pothole.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how the pictures on the wall seem to dealign sometimes?

Yeah, they definitely look a bit off from time to time.

I guess we should check if they need to be straightened out again.

Good idea! It would look so much better if we fix them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dealign is formed from the prefix "de-" (meaning to reverse or remove) and the root "align" (from Latin "lineare", meaning to line up or arrange). The word means to reverse or remove the arrangement or alignment of something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('de-') the 'alignment' ('align') of something — that's what dealign means.

Visually Confused Words