design

Academic Word List, sublist 2.

About 113.60 uses per million words.

Meaning

1. noun A specification of an object or process, referring to requirements to be satisfied and thus conditions to be met for them to solve a problem.
2. 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.

3. noun A pattern, as an element of a work of art or architecture.

   We're working on some new designs for our range of summer shirts

4. noun The composition of a work of art.
5. noun Intention or plot.

   We have designs on winning the league next season.

6. noun The shape or appearance given to an object, especially one that is intended to make it more attractive.
7. noun The art of designing

   Danish furniture design is world-famous.

8. verb To plan and carry out (a picture, work of art, construction etc.).

   comments designed to chip away at my self-esteem

Similar words

figure pattern plan project invention blueprint purpose innovation intention intent

Often followed by

of and is for in to a the was

Word family

designed designedly designer designers designing designs