right angle

noun

: the angle bounded by two lines perpendicular to each other : an angle of 90° or ¹/₂ π radians
right-angled adjective
or right-angle

Examples of right angle in a Sentence

A square has four right angles. Hold the nail at a right angle to the board. The two boards are joined at right angles to each other.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Herd, who has been a guide since 2015, walked us from Frontierland to Fantasyland and onto Tomorrowland, surprising us with treats such as Tiana’s beignets for a mid-morning snack and taking photos in front of the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, hitting just the right angle. Jacqui Gifford, Travel + Leisure, 8 Apr. 2025 In infants, the feet form a 90-degree or right angle. Mark Gurarie, Health, 5 Apr. 2025 Active hands and the right angles resulted in three run-out layups by Davis. Steve Reaven, Chicago Tribune, 15 Mar. 2025 This is made by bonding together layers of wooden panels at right angles, giving it a stiffness and strength that is almost comparable with steel or concrete. Maddy Savage, TIME, 18 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for right angle

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of right angle was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Right angle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/right%20angle. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

right angle

noun
: an angle whose measure is 90° : an angle whose sides are perpendicular to each other
right-angled
ˈrīt-ˈaŋ-gəld
adjective
or right-angle
-gəl

More from Merriam-Webster on right angle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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