realign
UK[ˌriːəˈlaɪn]US[ˌriːəˈlaɪn]
v
To change the position or direction of something slightly so that it is in the correct relationship with something else.
v
To change one's opinions, policies, or alliances so that they are the same as those of another person or group.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
align
re
again
align
arrange in line
Etymology
The word "realign" is a modern English formation, combining the Latin-derived prefix "re-" with the verb "align." The core concept of "align" originates from the Latin word "linea," meaning "line" or "string," which itself traces back to the Latin "linum" for "flax" (the plant whose fibers were used to make thread and lines). The prefix "re-" adds the sense of doing something again or returning to a previous state. Therefore, the literal morphemic logic is "to bring back into line." This evolved from the concrete idea of physically adjusting objects into a straight line to the modern abstract meanings of adjusting positions, relationships, or political stances to achieve harmony or a new configuration.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + align (arrange in line)
- re: A prefix from Latin, meaning "again" or "back." It indicates repetition or restoration.
- align: A verb from Old French 'alignier', ultimately from Latin 'ad-' (to) and 'linea' (line). It means to arrange things in a straight line or in correct relative positions.
Examples
The mechanic had to realign the wheels of the car.
The company is realigning its priorities to focus on digital innovation.
Several delegates realigned themselves with the opposition party.