framework

noun

frame·​work ˈfrām-ˌwərk How to pronounce framework (audio)
1
a
: a basic conceptional structure (as of ideas)
the framework of the U.S. Constitution
These influences threaten the very framework of our society.
b
: a skeletal, openwork, or structural frame
An iron framework surrounds the sculpture.
2
3
: the larger branches of a tree that determine its shape

Examples of framework in a Sentence

These influences threaten the very framework of our society. The book provides a general framework for understanding modern politics. He questions the study's theoretical framework. An iron framework surrounds the sculpture. The panels are attached to the building's steel framework.
Recent Examples on the Web There is already a model: the financial sector’s strong regulatory frameworks, dedicated oversight, formalized stress testing, and redundant IT systems. Jonathan Slotkin and David Vawdrey, STAT, 14 Mar. 2024 The film pulls its framework from the legend of Hanuman, a monkey commander in Hindu mythology who is held up as an example of courage, devotion and strength. Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 Mar. 2024 Rather than encouraging a collective effort to establish a clear legal framework to manage AI, states are already engaged in subtle, shadowy conflicts over AI’s material and intangible foundations. Aziz Huq, Foreign Affairs, 11 Mar. 2024 In a letter sent Thursday to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, Johnson claims his office developed a short form in 2018 that included calculations to deliver more grant aid to students, which could have served as a framework for the new FAFSA later approved by Congress. Danielle Douglas-Gabriel, Washington Post, 11 Mar. 2024 Industry and lawmakers crafted sensible compromises, arranged legal frameworks, and made limited liability the new norm. Chris Dixon, Fortune, 10 Mar. 2024 The framework for restitutions was drafted during the Washington Conference on Holocaust Era Assets in 1998 and consists of 11 non-binding principles meant to guide countries with different legal systems through issues related to art seized during the Nazi era within the context of their own laws. Carlie Porterfield, CNN, 6 Mar. 2024 Israel and Hamas have agreed to a basic framework of a deal. Suzanne Nuyen, NPR, 4 Mar. 2024 However, aligning Moldovan legislation with the EU's legal framework, known as the 'acquis communautaire,' marks just the beginning of a long journey. Zenger News, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2024

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

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of framework was in 1578

Dictionary Entries Near framework

Cite this Entry

“Framework.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/framework. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

framework

noun
frame·​work ˈfrām-ˌwərk How to pronounce framework (audio)
: a basic supporting part or structure

More from Merriam-Webster on framework

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