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Definition of laterally

laterally

/ˈlæt.ər.əl.i/
lat · er · al · ly
Adjective:lateral
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laterally Lexical Profile

laterally Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

Toward the side, from the side, or in a sideways direction.

Example

"The crab moved laterally across the sandy beach toward the tide pool."

2

At an equivalent rank or level within an organization or hierarchy, or by approaching problems through indirect and creative reasoning.

Example

"Rather than seeking a vertical promotion, she transferred laterally to gain experience in a different department."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for laterally
Antonyms
View all antonyms for laterally

• Rhymes for laterally

• Nearby Words

lateness
latent
lateral
laterally
laters
latex
lath

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the adjective lateral plus the adverbial suffix -ly; lateral derives from the Latin lateralis, meaning 'belonging to the side,' from latus ('side' or 'flank').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Laterally. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/laterally
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