Meaning of the word lateral in English

What does lateral mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

lateral

US /ˈlæt̬.ɚ.əl/
UK /ˈlæt.ər.əl/

Adjective

1.

of, at, toward, or from the side or sides

Example:
The car suffered severe lateral damage.
He made a quick lateral movement to avoid the tackle.
2.

relating to or involving the side of a person's or animal's body

Example:
The doctor examined the patient's lateral chest wall.
The injury affected the lateral ligaments of the knee.
3.

not direct or straightforward; indirect

Example:
We need to think with more lateral vision to solve this problem.
The company encourages lateral thinking among its employees.