Property
Lines that are in the same direction and always stay the same distance apart are parallel. When lines or segments cross, they are intersecting. Intersecting lines that form right angles, or square corners, are perpendicular.
Examples
The rails of a train track are parallel to each other.
The letter X is formed by two intersecting line segments.
The top edge and side edge of a door are perpendicular to each other.
Explanation
Imagine railroad tracks; they run alongside each other forever but never touch, making them parallel. Any two streets that cross each other are intersecting. But if they cross to make a perfect “plus” sign, like at a four-way stop, they are perpendicular! It’s all about whether they meet, and how they meet.