configuration

noun

kən-ˌfi-gyə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce configuration (audio)
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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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
as in shape
the outward appearance of something as distinguished from its substance a birthday cake in the configuration of a top hat

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 Developer agents can pull packages, change configurations and push code through workflows automatically. — Ken Ammon, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2026 In its default configuration, the handheld’s screen is flanked by analog sticks, a D-pad, and Xbox-style ABXY face buttons, plus two triggers on each shoulder. — Dominic Preston, The Verge, 2 Sep. 2026 Silly, preventable mistakes Lax configuration of routing security in Softaculous’ hosting provider, Hetzner Online, was the major contributor to the hack. — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 2 Sep. 2026 But that doesn’t mean the Ford Ranger Super Duty would never be welcome here—especially in its new 6×6 configuration. — Caleb Jacobs, The Drive, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for configuration
Recent Examples of Synonyms for configuration
  1. structure
  2. layout
  3. design
  4. shape
  5. framework
  6. formation
  7. format
  8. form
Noun
  • That pair, combined with the wider structure and personnel around them, ensure Leeds do not collapse when home sides like Brighton, predictably, lay it on thick.
    — Beren Cross, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2026
  • Officials asked the public to continue avoiding the parking structure while police investigated.
    — Michael McGough, Sacbee.com, 6 Sep. 2026
Definition of structure
Noun
  • The construction moved the equivalent of about 500 Olympic swimming pools’ worth of earth, part of which was reused to shape Madring’s layout.
    — Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Rooms Each of the 154 rooms and 54 suites at Hôtel Plaza Athénée is a bespoke creation—layouts range from opulent, classic 18th-century Parisian grandeur to sleek Art Deco design, including spaces designed by Bruno Moinard and Claire Bétaille.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Sep. 2026
Definition of layout
Noun
  • The shape of a Project Runway episode was discernible here — conversations with the designers about their inspirations, an in-depth look at their design process, backstage time at the runway shows — but the execution was Temu level.
    — Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 11 Sep. 2026
  • At the very least, these designs showcased Fleury’s creativity, especially in his first regular-season game as an offensive play caller.
    — Andrew Destin, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026
Definition of design
Noun
  • Donald, 35, rejoined the Rams in late August after two seasons away from the team, and the eight-time first team All-Pro defensive tackle has been working his way back into game shape.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 9 Sep. 2026
  • The five frame collection takes inspiration from retro-futurism across each color and sculptural shape, offering a unique and bold shape to take center stage in your outfit.
    — Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of shape
Noun
  • To build the president’s White House ballroom, roughly 250 workers have been pouring concrete and installing steel framework, keeping the site humming for 20 hours a day, seven days a week.
    — Janay Kingsberry, The Atlantic, 5 Sep. 2026
  • Osteopathic medical education intentionally integrates biomedical, clinical, health systems and biomechanical sciences, and concepts aligned with complexity science into a coherent framework for physician formation.
    — Torie Bosch, STAT, 5 Sep. 2026
Definition of framework
Noun
  • Another option is to tweak the formation and switch to a five-at-the-back shape with wing-backs.
    — Thom Harris, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026
  • The occasion is SkyAd, a new venture from Heads in the Sky co-founder Kevin Prince that turns formations of illuminated drones into temporary billboards.
    — Seth Abramovitch, HollywoodReporter, 11 Sep. 2026
Definition of formation
Noun
  • That existential change could make Cregger’s preferred format less of a personal choice for other gamers — who may or may not enjoy the same organizational benefits.
    — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 10 Sep. 2026
  • Roddick stood by the Grand Slam's late-night session format while conceding that a five-hour match could test viewers’ patience, echoing a concern raised by sports podcaster Bill Simmons.
    — Chantz Martin OutKick, FOXNews.com, 10 Sep. 2026
Definition of format
Noun
  • The Packers haven’t gone this long without an NFC North title since the division became its current form in 2002.
    — Matt Schneidman, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026
  • And while all forms of fossil fuels this year have been affected by the blockade of the Strait of the Hormuz, diesel differs somewhat from crude and unleaded gas because of the central role Russian refineries play in the global supply.
    — Steve Kopack, NBC news, 11 Sep. 2026
Definition of form

Browse Nearby Words

confiding
configuration
configurations
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Cite this Entry

“Configuration.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/configuration. Accessed 12 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on configuration

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about configuration

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