Design Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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design

[dɪˈzʌɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

graphic

The art or process of designing the appearance and functionality of objects, structures, or systems.

Synonyms

formatting, layout, pattern.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
design

Use when referring to the overall plan or concept for an object, project, or system. It can be applied to creative, technical, and planning processes.

  • The design of the new smartphone is both innovative and user-friendly
  • She has a keen eye for design and architecture
formatting

Use when referring to the arrangement and style of text, images, and other content within a document or file. Often used in the context of text documents or digital content.

  • Formatting the report took longer than writing it
  • The formatting of the resume needs to be more professional
layout

Use when referring to the arrangement of elements on a page, screen, or space. It emphasizes the spatial organization of visual components.

  • The layout of the magazine is clean and easy to read
  • They are working on the layout of the new office space
pattern

Use when referring to a repeated decorative design or a regular sequence in data, often found in textiles, designs, and behaviors.

  • She loves the floral pattern on that fabric
  • We are starting to notice a pattern in customer complaints

Examples of usage

  • She studied design in college.
  • The new website design is very user-friendly.
Context #2 | Verb

create

To create, fashion, execute, or construct according to a plan.

Synonyms

devise, formulate, plan.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
design

Used when talking about creating detailed plans or drawings, particularly in art, architecture, engineering, and fashion.

  • She designs beautiful dresses for her boutique.
  • The architect is designing a new skyscraper.
plan

Used in general contexts to mean creating a proposed course of actions or steps to achieve a particular goal, applicable in everyday use as well as professional settings.

  • They plan to go on vacation next summer.
  • The team met to plan the project's next phase.
devise

Often used when discussing the creation of schemes, strategies or ideas with a focus on inventiveness and cleverness.

  • The committee devised a new strategy to improve work efficiency.
  • He devised a plan to solve the problem.
formulate

Appropriate for articulating or developing detailed plans or proposals, often in scientific, legal, or policy-making contexts.

  • Scientists formulated a new theory based on the latest data.
  • The council is working to formulate new policies.

Examples of usage

  • She will design a new dress for the fashion show.
  • The architect designed the new building.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Impact

  • The Bauhaus movement in the early 20th century revolutionized design by emphasizing simplicity and functionality, shaping modern aesthetics.
  • Japanese design aesthetics, like 'wabi-sabi,' focus on the beauty of imperfection and transience, influencing global trends.
  • Fashion design has had a major impact on worldwide culture, with iconic designers like Coco Chanel changing how people dress and view style.

Scientific Aspects

  • Design thinking is a methodology used by scientists and engineers to solve complex problems through a creative and iterative process.
  • In environmental science, sustainable design focuses on minimizing negative impacts on the environment, promoting a healthier planet.
  • Usability studies in cognitive psychology show how good design can enhance user experience and improve efficiency in everyday tasks.

Technology

  • Digital design has transformed industries, with tools like Adobe Illustrator enabling graphic artists to create stunning visuals with ease.
  • User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design are crucial in tech, ensuring software and apps are intuitive and enjoyable to use.
  • 3D printing technology has radically changed design fields, allowing for rapid prototyping and customized production processes.

Literature

  • In literature, 'design' often refers to the structure of a narrative, like how a story unfolds and characters develop.
  • Famous authors like Virginia Woolf have eloquently explored themes of design in life, illustrating how our choices shape our journey.
  • The concept of 'design' in poetry can refer to the careful arrangement of words and rhythms to evoke emotion and communicate meaning.

Origin of 'design'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'designare,' meaning 'to mark out' or 'to designate,' which emphasizes the planning aspect.
  • In the late 16th century, 'design' began to include artistry and aesthetics, showing how important looks are in the concept.
  • During the Renaissance, design evolved into a critical discipline in art and architecture, highlighting the blend of function and beauty.

The word 'design' originated from the Latin word 'designare', which means 'to mark out'. The concept of design has been integral to human civilization, from ancient architecture to modern technology. Design is not just about aesthetics, but also about functionality and problem-solving. It has evolved over centuries to encompass various disciplines such as graphic design, fashion design, and industrial design.


See also: designable, designatable, designate, designated, designating, designation, designator, designed, designee, designer, designers, designing, designs, overdesign, overdesigning, predesigned, redesign, undesignated.

Word Frequency Rank

At #533 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.