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

Not to mention, The Boarding House received a One Michelin Key designation in 2024, 2025, and 2026. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Oct. 2026

Along with the out designation for receivers Cam Bates and Darren Morris, Boise State may have to lean heavily on sixth-year receiver Ben Ford and senior Akeem Wright this weekend. — Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 8 Oct. 2026

San Carlos Apache tribal leaders did not take a formal position on the national park designation, a spokesperson said Wednesday. — ABC News, 7 Oct. 2026

Hegseth’s directive apparently would not remove the designation from faculty members who are currently tenured. — Annie Ma, Los Angeles Times, 6 Oct. 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