designs; designed; designing
1
: to plan and make decisions about (something that is being built or created) : to create the plans, drawings, etc., that show how (something) will be made
A team of engineers designed the new engine.
a badly designed building
She designs clothes.
Who designed the book's cover?
2
: to plan and make (something) for a specific use or purpose
He designed the chair to adjust automatically.
—usually used as (be) designedThe course is designed to teach beginners. [=the purpose of the course is to teach beginners]
The book is designed as a college textbook.
The shoes are designed to keep your feet warm and dry.
The book is specially designed for learners.
The new models have been designed for easier use.
3
: to think of (something, such as a plan) : to plan (something) in your mind
They thought they could design the perfect crime.
design a strategy for battle
plural designs
1
: the way something has been made : the way the parts of something (such as a building, machine, book, etc.) are formed and arranged for a particular use, effect, etc.
There are problems with the design of the airplane's landing gear.
I like the design of the textbook.
I love the sculpture's design.
The machine had a flawed design.
2
: the process of planning how something will look, happen, be made, etc. : the process of designing something
She is studying furniture/Web design. [=how to design furniture/Web sites]
the design and development of new products
The new model is still in the design stage. [=is still being designed]
Correcting mistakes is part of the design process.
a number of design concepts/ideas
3
: a drawing of something that is being planned or created
—often + for
We reviewed the preliminary design for the new stadium.
Can I see the designs [=plans] for both bridges?
4
: a decorative pattern that covers something : a repeating picture, shape, etc., on something
The wallpaper in the bedroom has a floral design.
a skirt with a paisley design
fabric sold in a variety of colors and designs
5
: something that you plan to do : intention
My design [=(more commonly) purpose] in writing to you is to ask for your support.
The motor is loud by design. [=because it was intended to be loud]
The meeting happened by accident, not by design. [=on purpose]
Cite this Entry
“Design.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/design. Accessed 2 May. 2026.
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