Definition of configurationnext
1
as in structure
the arrangement of parts that gives something its basic form the basic configuration of the building is that of a geodesic dome

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2
as in layout
the way in which something is sized, arranged, or organized a small business computer system in its simplest configuration

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3
as in design
the way in which the elements of something (as a work of art) are arranged his photographs have an intentionally loose configuration, with no single object intended as the primary center of interest

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4

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of configuration As the mixture cools, the lowest energy configuration appears, providing an answer to the problem. — Mike McRae 22, New Atlas, 23 Sep. 2026 As for the cabin configuration, it’s been reenvisioned to showcase Bentley’s stylistic progression. — Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 23 Sep. 2026 Until a particle is observed, all of its possible configurations effectively exist at once. — Elise Cutts, Quanta Magazine, 23 Sep. 2026 The timber course uses a figure-eight configuration that carries horses away from the main oval before bringing them back toward the same home stretch. — Michael Howes, Baltimore Sun, 23 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for configuration
Recent Examples of Synonyms for configuration
Noun
  • Architect John Irving designed each structure to sit within the dune contours rather than on top of them, rooflines covered with native grasses, nothing above the ridgeline.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Sep. 2026
  • Their microscopy confirmed the quality of the crystal structure.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 26 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Here, that includes the robot, sensors, AI models, factory layout, technician responsibilities and maintenance workflow.
    — Mohammed Cherifi, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026
  • These options give equipment manufacturers additional flexibility when adapting the supply to existing hardware layouts.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 25 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Its design targets the economics of flight training, where fuel and maintenance can make every flight expensive.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 25 Sep. 2026
  • The Sea Ranch Lodge, a focal point of a Northern California getaway destination that blends minimalist design with the rocky shores and meadows of the Sonoma County coastline, might have a growth spurt in its future.
    — Christopher Reynolds, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • While moving, the cord returns to its original shape, ready to power its next leap so long as the infrared light is still shining.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 28 Sep. 2026
  • The look was elevated by Le Silla’s recognizable stiletto heel shape which flares ever so slightly.
    — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 27 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • The executive order bans online betting operations in Brazil, less than two years after the government kicked off a legal framework allowing the industry to operate.
    — Reuters, NBC news, 26 Sep. 2026
  • The project relies on a novel commercial framework to shield standard consumers from financial risk.
    — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 26 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Rather than heading straight for Utah, spend time exploring the desert beyond the Strip, including the red-rock formations and ancient petroglyphs of Valley of Fire State Park.
    — Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 24 Sep. 2026
  • By next year, Google is hoping to launch another pair of satellites before ramping up to a constellation of 80 satellites in close formation.
    — Victor Tangermann, Futurism, 24 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • The exhibition — which is open to the public until Friday — is to be taken on the road in a rebooted format, aligned with each location.
    — Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026
  • The video below shows IvyCraft in action across slides, infographics, podcasts, and other content formats.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 24 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • In financial disclosure forms, Overton reported no investments in healthcare or food companies.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 25 Sep. 2026
  • As with many things at Thom Browne, a gray suit inspired the design for this collab, with its clean lines and form acting as the muse for this pair of ‘phones.
    — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 24 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Configuration.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/configuration. Accessed 2 Oct. 2026.

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