vertical definition

1. Of or pertaining to the vertex; situated at the vertex, or highest point; directly overhead, or in the zenith; perpendicularly above one. "Charity . . . Is the vertical top of all religion." (Jer. Taylor)

2. Perpendicular to the plane of the horizon; upright; plumb; as, a vertical line.

<astronomy> Vertical angle, an angle measured on a vertical circle, called an angle of elevation, or altitude, when reckoned from the horizon upward, and of depression when downward below the horizon.

<botany> Vertical anthers The plane passing through the point of sight, and perpendicular to the ground plane, and also to the picture. Vertical sash, a sash sliding up and down. Cf. French sash, under 3d Sash. Vertical steam engine, a steam engine having the crank shaft vertically above or below a vertical cylinder.

Origin: Cf. F. Vertical. See Vertex.

1. Vertical position; zenith.

2. <mathematics> A vertical line, plane, or circle. Prime vertical, Prime vertical dial. See Prime.

(01 Mar 1998)