longitudinal

Definition

Running across a set direction of an object.

Etymology

From Middle English longitudinal, from Latin longitūdin-, oblique stem of longitūdō (“length, longitude”). By surface analysis, longitude + -in- + -al.

Example Sentences

• "The motion about the longitudinal axis of an airplane is called roll."
• "The units have transverse seats, two and three astride the passageway with single or double longitudinal seats alongside the two entrance vestibules in each car."
• "The third rotation is about the longitudinal axis of the thigh."