The word "orthogonally" is spelled with three syllables, each with a distinct sound. The first syllable is "or", pronounced as /ɔr/, like in the word "orange". The second syllable is "thog", pronounced as /θɑg/, with the "th" sound like in "thin" and "og" like in "dog". The final syllable is "onally", pronounced as /ɑnəli/, with a stress on the second syllable and the "a" sound like in "cat". This word means "at right angles" or "perpendicular to each other", often used in mathematics and engineering.
Orthogonally is an adverb derived from the word "orthogonal," which is primarily used in mathematics and related fields. It refers to a particular geometric concept where two lines or planes meet or intersect at right angles, forming a 90-degree angle. Thus, the term "orthogonally" is used to describe actions, relationships, or concepts that are perpendicular or at right angles to one another.
In a broader sense, when we say that something is happening orthogonally, it means that it is occurring independently or distinctly from something else. It suggests a lack of direct or immediate connection between the two entities. This term is often used metaphorically to describe ideas, concepts, or actions that have different trajectories, goals, or methods of operation, but still exist side by side.
In computing and programming, orthogonal can describe systems or components that do not rely on each other's functionality or interfere with one another's processes. This design principle promotes modularity and independence and ensures that modifications or updates in one part of the system do not affect other parts.
Overall, "orthogonally" is a term used to convey the idea of perpendicularity or independence between elements, whether in a geometric, metaphorical, or computational context. It implies separation, distinctness, and lack of direct influence or reliance on each other.
The term "orthogonally" originates from the Greek word "orthogōnios", which is derived from two components: "ortho", meaning "straight" or "right", and "gōnía", which translates to "angle" or "corner". When combined, they form "orthogōnios", meaning "having right angles" or "perpendicular". Over time, the word "orthogonally" emerged in English as an adverb derived from "orthogonal", describing something that is related to right angles or perpendicularity.