alignment

n. [ F. alignement. ] 1. The act of adjusting to a line; arrangement in a line or lines; the state of being so adjusted; a formation in a straight line; also, the line of adjustment; esp., an imaginary line to regulate the formation of troops or of a squadron. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Engin.) The ground-plan of a railway or other road, in distinction from the grades or profile. [ 1913 Webster ]