Definition of "longitudinal" in English

adjective

1. Running across a set direction of an object.

   • The motion about the longitudinal axis of an airplane is called roll.

2. Relating to the geographical longitude.

   • The longitudinal position of a ship refers to its angular distance east or west from the prime meridian.

3. (sciences) Of a study, sampling data over time rather than merely once.

   • longitudinal studies

noun

1. Any longitudinal piece, as in shipbuilding etc.

2. (rail transport) A railway sleeper lying parallel with the rail.