What does laterally mean?
Laterally means in a sideways direction, away from a central line, axis, or main direction of travel. It is used literally for people, vehicles, objects, or forces that move to one side: a runner may drift laterally, or a current may carry debris laterally across a channel. The word can also have a broader figurative meaning, describing growth or activity that proceeds parallel to a main focus rather than directly toward it. For example, a business may expand laterally by entering neighbouring markets, preserving its existing products and customers while broadening its scope. In cybersecurity, lateral movement refers to access spreading from one system or account to another. Laterally is formed from the adjective lateral, which comes through French from Latin lateralis, meaning “of the side” or “on the side.” Its use is formal and precise rather than colloquial; in everyday speech, “sideways” is usually the more natural alternative.
adverbIn a sideways direction, away from a central line or axis. It can also describe development or movement in a parallel direction rather than toward a main focus.
- In a direction toward or along the side; sideways.
- In a parallel or sideways manner, especially with reference to development rather than direct advancement.
"The crab moved laterally across the smooth rock, keeping close to the shelter of the waves."
"She shifted laterally to let the two runners pass."
"The company is expanding laterally into related markets while maintaining its focus on its core business."
Laterally is the sideways word: it sends movement away from the center line and into a parallel path.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does laterally come from?
Laterally was formed from lateral with the adverbial suffix -ly. The adjective lateral entered English from French lateral, from Latin lateralis, meaning “of the side” or “on the side,” ultimately derived from Latin latus, meaning “side” or “broad.” The same Latin root also underlies words such as latitude and latibund.
Related word forms
How laterally is actually used
The adverb is common in both literal and figurative descriptions. In discussions of security, “move laterally” can refer to transferring access from one system or account to another. The figurative sense sometimes suggests indirect, parallel, or non-central development.
Easily confused with laterally
Laterally means in a sideways direction, whereas latterly means recently or in the recent past.