n.
/
ˈɔːrɪənt,
ˈɒr-/
-
(the Orient)
literary the countries of the East, especially east Asia.
- the special lustre of a pearl of the finest quality (with reference to fine pearls from the East).
adj.
/
ˈɔːrɪənt,
ˈɒr-/
literary oriental.
v.
/
ˈɔːrɪɛnt,
ˈɒr-/
- align or position relative to the points of a compass or other specified positions.
▸
(orient oneself)
find one's position in relation to unfamiliar surroundings.
- tailor (something) to specified circumstances.
Etymology
ME: via OFr. from L. orient- ‘rising or east’, from oriri ‘to rise’.