flatwise

A carpenter places the board flatwise on the workbench.

Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In a flat position or manner: "flatwise" means with the flat side facing a particular direction, typically lying or placed so that the broadest surface is horizontal or against something.
   • Lengthwise along a flat surface: It can also describe orientation where an object is positioned so its flattest part is in contact with another surface, as opposed to edgewise.

Usage Examples

• (Positioned with the broad side down.)
• (Set so the flat side rests against the wall.)
• (Inserted with the cover parallel to the shelf surface.)

Advanced Usage

• "to lie flatwise": to be positioned with the entire flat surface resting on something.

  • The map lay flatwise on the desk, covering the entire area. (The map was spread out completely flat.)

• "to cut flatwise": to slice along the broad side of an object.

  • He cut the cucumber flatwise to make long, thin strips. (Sliced parallel to the flat side.)

Variants and Related Words

• Flat (adj, n, adv): having a level surface; without curvature.

  • The ground is flat here. (The surface is even.)

• Flatways (adv): an alternative spelling of "flatwise," meaning in a flat manner.

  • She placed the box flatways on the cart. (Laid with the flat side down.)

• Edgewise (adv): with the edge facing a particular direction (opposite of flatwise).

  • He tried to fit the table edgewise through the door. (With the narrow side first.)

Synonyms

• Flat: in a flat position.

  • The paper lay flat on the desk. (Completely level.)

• Horizontally: parallel to the horizon.

  • The board was placed horizontally. (Flatwise orientation.)

Related Idioms

• Flat out: at maximum speed or effort (not directly related to position).

  • She worked flat out to meet the deadline. (With full effort.)

• Flat as a pancake: very flat or level.

  • The landscape was flat as a pancake after the bulldozer. (Completely even.)