ENGLISH
REFERENCE

framed

v. · adj.
US //ˈfɹeɪmd// UK //fɹˈeɪmd// framed
  1. 1 to put in a border (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to put a picture or photo inside a border or frame.

    to enclose a photograph, painting, or document within a decorative or protective border.

    Example

    She framed the graduation photo and hung it on the living room wall.

    Example

    The gallery owner framed the original sketches in simple black wood to ensure the focus remained entirely on the artist's delicate line work.
  2. 2 to falsely accuse (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Law

    to make an innocent person look guilty of a crime by using fake evidence.

    to contrive evidence so as to make an innocent person appear guilty of a crime.

    Example

    The detective realized the suspect had been framed when he found the hidden camera.

    Example

    The protagonist spends the second act of the film desperately trying to prove he was framed by a corrupt official who planted the weapon in his car.
    • set up
    • incriminate
    • exonerate
  3. 3 to express an idea (v.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    to choose specific words to explain an idea or a question.

    to formulate or articulate a concept, argument, or question in a particular way.

    Example

    The teacher framed the question in a way that helped the students understand.

    Example

    The researchers framed their hypothesis within the context of existing social theories to ensure their findings would be relevant to the broader academic community.

    Usage

    Often used in the passive voice when discussing how an issue is presented to the public.
  4. 4 having a border (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    describes something, like a picture, that is already inside a frame.

    enclosed or mounted within a frame; used as a participial adjective.

    Example

    The framed map on the wall showed the city as it looked a hundred years ago.

    Example

    A collection of framed certificates occupied the space behind the clerk's desk, intended to impress visitors with the firm's various credentials.
    • unframed

Last updated June 20, 2026