Lengthwise

Lengthwise refers to orientation or direction along the length of an object, i.e., along its long axis. It is used as both an adjective and an adverb. The opposite orientation is crosswise (or widthwise).

In textiles and fabrics, the lengthwise grain runs parallel to the warp. Cutting lengthwise means along the length of the fabric, while crosswise cutting is perpendicular to that axis. In woodworking, lengthwise cuts follow the grain of the wood, whereas crosscuts cut across the grain; this distinction affects ease of cutting, finish, and structural properties.

In anatomy and biology, a lengthwise or longitudinal section reveals the interior along the organism’s or structure’s long axis, such as a lengthwise cut through a limb or organ. In geometry, lengthwise orientation describes alignment with the object’s maximum dimension; for irregular shapes, it may refer to the direction of a chosen long axis.

Summary: lengthwise denotes alignment with a long dimension and is often contrasted with crosswise or transverse arrangements. Its precise interpretation depends on the field, but it generally describes direction along the length rather than across it.