line
line · noun
Definitions
noun
- 1.
A long narrow mark or band.
- 2.
A row of people or things.
- 3.
A length of cord, rope, wire, or other material.
- 4.
A row of written or printed words.
- 5.
A company operating transport services.
- 6.
A range of commercial goods.
- 7.
A field of activity or business.
- 8.
Stand in a row along.
- 9.
Cover the inside surface of.
Forms
plural: lines
Phrases & expressions
- •draw the line — Set a limit on what one will accept.
- •in line with — Consistent with.
- •line up — Form a queue; arrange.
- •on the line — At risk.
- •read between the lines — Understand hidden meanings.
- •along the lines of — Similar to.
- •cross the line — Behave inappropriately.
- •bottom line — The most important point.
- •toe the line — Follow rules obediently.
- •hold the line — Wait on the phone; maintain a position.
Related words
Etymology
From Old French ligne, from Latin linea ("linen thread, line"), from linum ("flax, linen"). Related to "linen" and "linear." The word originally referred to a thread or string.