designation

noun

des·​ig·​na·​tion ˌde-zig-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the act of indicating or identifying

the designation of a speech sound

2

: appointment to or selection for an office, post, or service

awaiting his next designation

3

: a distinguishing name, sign, or title

… the only star in Lynx with a Greek letter designation

—Richard Berry

approved the area's designation as a wildlife refuge

4

: the relation between a sign and the thing signified

Synonyms of designation

• moniker
• name
• title
• nomenclature
• nickname
• appellation

Examples of designation in a Sentence

Though many people call her a liberal, it is not a designation she uses herself.

we've never given the homemade gadget a proper designation

Recent Examples on the Web

Such a designation would identify habitat considered essential to the species and require federal agencies to consider potential effects on it when taking certain actions. — Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 16 Sep. 2026

He was not given an injury designation until Tuesday — just two days before the game. — Colton Pouncy, New York Times, 16 Sep. 2026

Those who pass will receive an advanced designation on their transcripts. — Jennifer McLogan, CBS News, 15 Sep. 2026

Sukin said these designations, which lead Texas and the Southwest region, reflect the skill, compassion and commitment of its physicians, nurses, researchers and staff. — Mateo Rosiles, USA Today, 15 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see designate entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing designation

• self-designation

Rhymes for designation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

designation

noun

des·​ig·​na·​tion ˌdez-ig-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the act of indicating or identifying

2

: appointment to or selection for an office, post, or service

3

: a name, sign, or title that identifies something