right angle

noun

: the angle bounded by two lines perpendicular to each other : an angle of 90° or ½ π radians compare acute angle, obtuse angle
right-angled
ˈrīt-ˈaŋ-gəld How to pronounce right angle (audio)
adjective
or right-angle
ˈrīt-ˈaŋ-gəl How to pronounce right angle (audio)

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.
The windows look out toward a gleaming new skyscraper next door, all glass and right angles. — Tim Hornyak, New York Times, 14 Oct. 2026 Views here are some of the best in the Greek seas, and photographers clamor for just the right angle. — Rick Steves, Washington Post, 11 Oct. 2026 Dismissing stark right angles, the Johnstons sought a warmer contemporary aesthetic—one defined by fluid, organic curves that appear in the cedar roofs, columns, and courtyard wall. — Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 24 Sep. 2026 When the sun hits Ferm Living’s perforated Dapple chairs at just the right angle, light supposedly scatters through the steel seat in an artistic way, letting a relaxed tranquility wash over your outdoor patio. — Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 3 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for right angle

See All Rhymes for right angle

Browse Nearby Words

right and left
right angle
right-angle clamp
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Right angle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/right%20angle. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about right angle

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