ENGLISH
REFERENCE

design

n. · v.
US //dɪˈzaɪn// UK //dɪzˈaɪn// de·sign
  1. 1 a plan or drawing (n.)
    A1 Beginner

    a plan or drawing produced to show the look and function of a building, garment, or other object before it is made.

    a detailed plan or specification for the construction of an object or the arrangement of a system.

    Example

    The architect showed us the final design for the new library.

    Example

    The engineering team spent months refining the design to ensure the bridge could withstand extreme weather conditions.
  2. 2 style or appearance (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the way that something has been planned and made, often to look attractive.

    the aesthetic or functional arrangement of elements in an object or work of art.

    Example

    I really like the modern design of this sofa.

    Example

    The interior design of the hotel combines traditional materials with a minimalist aesthetic to create a calming atmosphere.
Show 4 more sensesShow fewer
  1. 3 a decorative pattern (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a decorative pattern on something like cloth, paper, or a wall.

    a decorative pattern or motif used as an element of artistic or architectural work.

    Example

    The wallpaper has a beautiful floral design in gold and white.

    Example

    The fabric features an intricate geometric design that reflects the cultural heritage of the region.
  2. 4 a secret intention (n.)
    C1 Advanced Literary

    a secret plan or purpose, often to do something bad.

    a decorative or calculated intention; often used in the plural to describe a plot or scheme.

    Example

    He had designs on his neighbor's land and tried to buy it cheaply.

    Example

    It soon became clear that the rival corporation had designs on the smaller firm's patents and was preparing a hostile takeover.
  3. 5 to create a plan (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    to decide how something will look or work by making a drawing or plan of it.

    to conceive and fashion in the mind; to invent and prepare a plan for an object or system.

    Example

    She wants to design her own wedding dress.

    Example

    The software was designed to help small businesses manage their finances more efficiently without needing an accountant.
  4. 6 to intend for a purpose (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to plan or intend something for a specific person or use.

    to intend or set apart for a specific purpose or recipient; often used in the passive voice.

    Example

    This course is designed for students who have no experience with coding.

    Example

    The new legislation is designed to protect consumers from predatory lending practices in the housing market.
Origin

From Middle English designen, from Old French designer, from Latin designō (“to mark out, point out, describe, design, contrive”), from de- (or dis-) + signō (“to mark”), from signum (“mark”). Doublet of designate.

Word family

© 2026 English Reference