setout

1 of 2

noun

set·​out ˈset-ˌau̇t 

1

a(1)

: array, display

(2)

: arrangement, layout

b

: buffet, spread

c

: turnout sense 5

2

: party, entertainment

3

: beginning, outset

set out

2 of 2

verb

set out; setting out; sets out

transitive verb

1

a

: to arrange and present graphically or systematically

b

: to mark out (something, such as a design) : lay out the plan of

2

: to state, describe, or recite at length

distributed copies of a pamphlet setting out his ideas in full

—S. F. Mason

3

: to begin with a definite purpose : intend, undertake

intransitive verb

: to start out on a course, a journey, or a career

set out across the country

Synonyms

Noun

• layout
• formation
• format

Verb

• describe
• portray
• depict

Examples of setout in a Sentence

Noun

the setout of the stations at the polling place was a little confusing

Verb

in his inaugural address, the president set out his vision for the nation over the next four years

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

So far, commentators have widely dismissed notions that President Trump may try to run for a third term, on the grounds that it is set out in the 22nd Amendment of the Constitution that presidents can only serve twice. —Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 11 July 2025

For a summer dinner party, a DIY Spritz Station is perfect: set out recipe cards, garnishes like mint, basil, and citrus, a few base spirits (such as Aperol or elderflower liqueur), sparkling water, and cute drink toppers. —Dominique Fluker, Essence, 11 July 2025

The ECtHR is an international court set up in 1959 to rule on individual or State applications alleging violations of the civil and political rights set out in the European Convention. —Dr. Ewelina U. Ochab, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025

Several search and rescue parties, including a human tracker and a drone team, set out to search the area, officials said. —Sacbee.com, 9 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

circa 1807, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Rhymes for setout

• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout
• checkout
• closeout
• cutout
• devout
• dropout

Kids Definition

set out

verb

1

: to begin with a definite purpose : undertake

deliberately set out to win

2

: to start out on a course, a journey, or a career

set out to be a doctor

set out for Spain