Layout Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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layout

[ˈleɪˌaʊt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

web design

The arrangement or organization of elements on a web page, screen, or document. It determines how information is presented to the user.

Synonyms

arrangement, design, format.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
layout	Typically used when discussing the physical arrangement or structure of elements on a page, website, or within a space. The layout of the magazine is very modern and clean. She helped us plan the layout of the new office.
design	Broader in scope, encompassing the overall concept, functionality, and aesthetics of an object, space, or system. He admired the design of the new smartphone. The architect worked on the design of the building for months.
format	Mainly used when discussing the organization and style of content, such as documents, digital files, or data presentations. Please make sure your essay is in the correct format before submitting. The format of the report was clear and easy to read.
arrangement	Refers generally to the organization or placement of objects or elements, often in a more physical or tangible sense. The flower arrangement on the table was beautiful. They worked on the seating arrangement for the wedding.

Examples of usage

The layout of the website was clean and user-friendly.
The designer spent hours perfecting the layout of the magazine.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

organizing

To plan the arrangement of elements in a particular way. It involves deciding how things should be positioned or structured.

Synonyms

arrange, design, organize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
layout	See 'layout' above. It refers to the physical or visual arrangement of elements. The layout needs to be more user-friendly. Check the layout of this flyer.
arrange	Use when referring to putting things in a particular order or position, often used when talking about organizing items, meetings, or events. She arranged the flowers beautifully. Let's arrange a meeting for next week.
organize	Use when referring to making arrangements or preparations for something to be systematic and efficient, often used for events, files, or spaces. She organized her closet by color. We need to organize the files for this project.
design	Use when referring to the process of creating plans or drawings to show the look and function of something before it is made, often used in artistic and technical fields. He designs cars for a living. We need to design a new logo.

Examples of usage

She carefully laid out the furniture in the new apartment.
The team needs to layout the steps for the project.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Design

In graphic design, a good layout balances text and images, guiding the viewer's eyes across the material.
Layouts can influence how people understand and interact with advertisements, making them a critical aspect of marketing.

Architecture

In architecture, the layout of a building can affect how people move through the space, impacting functionality and ambiance.
Famous buildings are often praised not just for their beauty but also for their effective layouts that enhance user experience.

Technology

Websites have layouts that determine where text, images, and buttons go, affecting how users navigate and interact with the content.
Responsive web design ensures that layouts adjust based on the device, providing a good experience on both phones and computers.

Psychology

The arrangement of items in a space can influence emotions; for example, organized layouts can create a sense of calm.
Cluttered layouts may lead to distraction and stress, showing that environment design can affect mental well-being.

Origin of 'layout'

Main points about word origin

The term 'layout' comes from the combination of 'lay' meaning to place down and 'out' indicating a specific arrangement.
It has been used since the 19th century in various fields, such as printing and architecture.

The word 'layout' originated in the 1850s from the verb 'lay' combined with 'out', meaning 'to put in order'. Initially used in the context of arranging physical objects, it later expanded to include the organization of information and design elements in various media.

See also: lay, layabout, layer, layoff, layover, mislay, outlay, outlays, relay.