design

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the act of working out the form of something, as by making a sketch or outline or plan

   We contributed to the design of a new instrument.

2. 2
   noun

   a decorative or artistic work

   the coach had a design on the doors

3. 3
   noun

   a preliminary sketch indicating the plan for something

   the design of a building

4. 4
   noun

   an arrangement scheme

   the awkward design of the keyboard made operation difficult

5. 5
   verb

   intend or have as a purpose

   They designed to go far in the world of business.

6. 6
   verb

   plan something for a specific role or purpose or effect

   This room is not designed for work

7. 7
   verb

   create designs

   Dupont designs for the house of Chanel

8. 8
   noun

   A plan (with more or less detail) for the structure and functions of an artifact, building or system.

   The initial design of the park was rejected for being too expensive.

Etymology

From Middle English designen, from Old French designer, from Latin designō (“to mark out, point out, describe, design, contrive”), from de- (or dis-) + signō (“to mark”), from signum (“mark”). Doublet of designate.