Definition

In a direction that is parallel to the horizon or flat ground, rather than up and down.

Example

The picture was hung horizontally on the wall.

Conversation

How do you prefer to arrange the shelves in your room?

I like to place the books horizontally for a cleaner look.

That makes sense! It does save space too, right?

Exactly! Plus, it makes it easier to access them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Horizontally → It is formed from "horizon" (from Old French *horizon*, meaning the line at which the earth's surface and the sky appear to meet) and the suffix "-ally" (meaning in a manner of). The word "horizontally" means in a manner relating to the horizon or parallel to the ground.

Memory Tip

Think of the horizon as the line where the earth meets the sky, and remember that doing something 'horizontally' means doing it in a way that is parallel to that line.

Visually Confused Words