To align means to arrange things so they line up properly or work together in harmony. When you align books on a shelf, you position them so their spines form a neat, straight edge. When a mechanic aligns the wheels on a car, she adjusts them so they point in exactly the right direction for smooth, safe driving.

The word often describes making sure different parts fit together correctly. A printer that won't work might have paper that isn't aligned properly in the tray. When you hang a picture frame, you check to make sure it's aligned with the edge of the table below it, not tilted to one side.

Beyond physical objects, align describes bringing ideas, goals, or efforts into agreement. When a team's practice schedule aligns with everyone's availability, it works for the whole group. When your actions align with your values, you're doing what you believe is right. A school's curriculum might be aligned with state standards, meaning it covers everything students are expected to learn.

When things are properly aligned, they work together smoothly instead of working against each other.