# configuration

/kənˌfɪɡjɝˈeɪʃən/ (US) · /kənfˌɪɡjʊɹˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/configuration
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. general arrangement

noun · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: the relative arrangement or disposition of the parts or elements of a thing.

- The seating configuration in the hall allowed everyone to see the stage clearly.
- The aircraft's wing configuration was specifically designed to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency during long-haul flights.

### 2. computing setup

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

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

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

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

### 3. chemistry/physics

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical · Academic

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

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

- The chemical properties of the element depend on its electron configuration.
- Researchers observed that a slight change in the molecular configuration completely altered the compound's reactivity with the catalyst.

## Examples

- The computer has a special configuration for gaming.
- The technician changed the server configuration to improve the website's loading speed for international users.
- The molecular configuration of the compound determines how it will interact with other chemicals during the experiment, making precise mapping essential for the study.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.