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configuration

n.
US //kənˌfɪɡjɝˈeɪʃən// UK //kənfˌɪɡjʊɹˈeɪʃən// con·fig·u·ra·tion
  1. 1 general arrangement (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the way that parts of something are organized or positioned to form a specific shape or system.

    the relative arrangement or disposition of the parts or elements of a thing.

    Example

    The seating configuration in the hall allowed everyone to see the stage clearly.

    Example

    The aircraft's wing configuration was specifically designed to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency during long-haul flights.
  2. 2 computing setup (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computing

    the specific settings or parts that make a computer or software work in a certain way.

    the functional arrangement of hardware and software components in a computer system, or the specific settings chosen for a program.

    Example

    You can change the network configuration in the system settings menu.

    Example

    The server's default configuration proved insufficient for the high volume of traffic received during the product launch.

    Usage

    Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the process of setting up.
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  1. 3 chemistry/physics (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Academic Science

    the way that electrons or atoms are arranged in a molecule.

    the spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule or the distribution of electrons in atomic orbitals.

    Example

    The chemical properties of the element depend on its electron configuration.

    Example

    Researchers observed that a slight change in the molecular configuration completely altered the compound's reactivity with the catalyst.
Origin

From Middle French configuration, from Latin cōnfigūrātiō. Morphologically configure + -ation.

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