Orientation

Definition

Orientation refers to the relative physical positioning or direction of something, or a person's perspectives, feelings, or inclinations regarding certain matters or issues.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɔriˌɛnˈteɪʃən/
• Respelling: or-ee-en-TAY-shun (with "or" as in "or," "ee" as in "see," "en" as in "end," "TAY" as in "day," and "shun" as in "nation")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɔːriˌɛnˈteɪʃn/
• Respelling: or-ee-en-TAY-shn (similar to American English, with "or" as in "or," "ee" as in "see," "en" as in "end," "TAY" as in "day," and "shn" as in the clipped ending of "nation")

In both dialects, "orientation" places the primary stress on the third syllable, "TAY." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "or-ee-en-TAY-shun" and "or-ee-en-TAY-shn."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "oriens", meaning "rising", "east", or "sunrise". It then morphed into the verb "orientate", which then led to the noun form "orientation" signifying the action or process of orienting or being oriented.

Derivatives

• Orientate (verb form)
• Reorientation (action of changing the focus or direction)
• Disorientation (loss of sense of direction or personal identity)
• Oriented (having a specified orientation)
• Orientational (adjective form)

Synonyms

• Direction
• Alignment
• Positioning

Antonyms

• Disorientation
• Misalignment
• Chaos

Usage

"Orientation" can describe a physical direction or positioning, as in "the orientation of the building", or refer to an individual's perspectives or inclinations on a particular issue, such as "sexual orientation".

• The new employees will attend an orientation session next week.
• The orientation of the house allows for maximum sunlight in the morning.

Related Terms

• Bearing
• Inclination
• Perspective
• Direction
• Focus

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Physical Positioning or Direction: The relative physical positioning or alignment of something in relation to points on a compass or another specified direction.‍
• Example: The orientation of the satellite dish is crucial for receiving clear signals.

• Personal Perspectives or Inclinations: A person's feelings, interests, or beliefs, especially regarding their sexual preference.‍
• Example: The university promotes respect for all, regardless of race, religion, or orientation.

• An Introduction or Familiarization Session: A program or session introducing a new situation or environment, especially for new students or employees.‍
• Example: The freshman orientation will be held in the main auditorium.‍