configuration

noun

con·​fig·​u·​ra·​tion kən-ˌfi-gyə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce configuration (audio)
ˌkän-,
-gə-ˈrā-
1
a
: relative arrangement of parts or elements: such as
(1)
: shape
(2)
: contour of land
configuration of the mountains
(3)
: functional arrangement
a small business computer system in its simplest configuration
b
: something (such as a figure, contour, pattern, or apparatus) that results from a particular arrangement of parts or components
c
: the stable structural makeup of a chemical compound especially with reference to the space relations of the constituent atoms
2
: gestalt
personality configuration
configurational
kən-ˌfi-gyə-ˈrā-shnəl How to pronounce configuration (audio)
-shə-nᵊl
ˌkän-
-gə-ˈrā-
adjective
configurationally adverb
configurative
kən-ˈfi-gyə-rə-tiv How to pronounce configuration (audio)
-ˈfi-gə-
ˌkän-
adjective

Did you know?

The term is very common in computer science and mathematics, and in scientific and technological fields in general. Thus, for example, two scientists won a 1962 Nobel Prize for their description of the configuration of the DNA molecule. Since then, researchers have studied what different configurations within the DNA strands mean and what they control, and genetic engineers have tried to configure or reconfigure DNA in new ways to prevent or treat diseases.

Examples of configuration in a Sentence

We'll have to change the configuration of the system to accommodate the new server. the basic configuration of the building is that of a geodesic dome
Recent Examples on the Web According to city records, two companies submitted bids: Oak View Group and ASM Global Management, which manages convention centers and conference venues of every size and configuration on five continents. The Enquirer, 7 Mar. 2024 This aircraft can accommodate up to 11 occupants, with choices including the six-seat executive or nine-seat commuter configurations. Daniel Cote, Robb Report, 7 Mar. 2024 These systems come in different shapes, sizes and configurations, but May ballparks the average cost of one suited to a single-family home or an ADU like Ferrari’s at $8,000 to $10,000. Rachel Kurzius, Washington Post, 5 Mar. 2024 Solid Neck Gaiter, currently up to 40 percent off, which can be worn in over a dozen different configurations to protect your face and neck. Alice Bennett, Travel + Leisure, 2 Mar. 2024 The time savings and reduction in headaches associated with automating network configuration backup, for example, can generate real value for IT organizations. Douglas Murray, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2024 At the same time, much of a typical IT pro’s job involves complex and labor-intensive work such as setting up computers, provisioning apps to onboard new employees and staying on top of patches, updates and configuration changes across hundreds of SaaS apps and other systems. Douglas Murray, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2024 This may also be one of the last years visitors will see the Tidal Basin’s cherry blossoms in their current configuration. Karina Elwood, Washington Post, 29 Feb. 2024 Forget about traditional switches—configuration is effortlessly managed via its app, remote control, or Bluetooth. Stack Commerce, Popular Science, 28 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'configuration.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

earlier, "relative position of the planets," borrowed from Middle French & Late Latin; Middle French, "form, relative position of the planets," borrowed from Late Latin configūrātiōn-, configūrātiō "comparison, shaping," from Latin configūrāre "to shape, mold" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at configure

First Known Use

1559, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of configuration was in 1559

Dictionary Entries Near configuration

Cite this Entry

“Configuration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/configuration. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

configuration

noun
con·​fig·​u·​ra·​tion kən-ˌfig-(y)ə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce configuration (audio)
kän-
: arrangement of parts or the pattern produced by such arrangement

Medical Definition

configuration

noun
con·​fig·​u·​ra·​tion kən-ˌfig-(y)ə-ˈrā-shən, ˌkän- How to pronounce configuration (audio)
1
a
: relative arrangement of parts or elements
b
: the stable structural makeup of a chemical compound especially with reference to the space relations of the constituent atoms
2
: gestalt
personality configuration
configurational adjective
configurationally adverb
configurative adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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