Realignments

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The processes of altering or modifying the arrangement of components to establish a new order ; Actions taken to reposition elements in accordance with updated criteria or standards ; The results of adjustments aimed at facilitating proper alignment and coordination among various parts or entities
2. The acts of adjusting positions or arrangements to achieve a different configuration
3. Processes involving shifting or modifying placements to create an improved setup

Etymology: "Realignments" is the plural of "realignment," so its history is that of the noun itself. It is a plain formation: the prefix "re-", meaning again or back, attached to "alignment," which comes from the verb "align," to bring into a straight line. The alignment part traces to Latin, passing through Old French before reaching English, where the "re-" element was added to it in English. The word therefore carries a literal sense of straightening something again. Its metaphorical use, for political parties, alliances and business arrangements being reorganised, grew out of the older idea of putting parts back into a line. Reading it in that light makes the core meaning clear: a return to proper placement, often after something has drifted out of position.

Synonyms: rearrangements, reshuffles, reorganizations, adjustments, restructurings