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

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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

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 The configuration of villas is flexible; intimate, private, and romantic enough for couples but also spacious enough for a family and friends’ group of six—they can each be adapted to suit the number of guests. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026 Near-term expansion buys time and demonstrates political seriousness, while long-term network building is the only configuration that delivers resilience that is structural rather than situational. Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 23 Apr. 2026 The modular design holds the possibility for lots of configurations, making the furniture feel like multiple sets in one. Blake Bakkila, Architectural Digest, 23 Apr. 2026 And the Neo is still readily available from third-party retailers like Amazon and Best Buy; most Mac mini and Mac Studio configurations are also sold out on these third-party sites. Andrew Cunningham, ArsTechnica, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for configuration
Recent Examples of Synonyms for configuration
Noun
  • The Moon moves through your 10th House of Visibility, where your structure is more noticeable.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Last fall, OpenAI overhauled its structure again to become a public benefit corporation, in which the nonprofit and other investors including Microsoft hold stakes.
    Deepa Seetharaman, USA Today, 27 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Released in the early ‘90s, the double-sided wristwatch shows a conventional chronograph layout with three registers on one side and an oversized, one-minute, multimeter scale on the other.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 25 Apr. 2026
  • There’s space to spread out, too, with notably generous layouts and extra-large bathroom vanities.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The site design also features restroom facilities, laundry machines, internet access and a secured perimeter with around-the-clock onsite security.
    Hannah Elsmore, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026
  • David Gallos’s scenic design showcases a modest but welcoming home where Bertha’s biscuits bake in the oven, a box of dominoes lies tucked on a side table, and warm coffee heats on the stove.
    Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 26 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The movement of Pinnock and Cheek drags out Gillingham’s defensive shape.
    Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 23 Apr. 2026
  • Nicotine, marijuana and excess alcohol have all been linked to lower sperm count, poor motility and abnormal shape.
    Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 22 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The city’s nightlife offerings — including everything from concert venues and nightclubs to some wine bars and restaurants — are set to see a major overhaul this year as the city’s licensing department proposes changes to its regulatory framework for them.
    Elliott Wenzler, Denver Post, 25 Apr. 2026
  • How Power Surges Damage Appliances and Electronics Understanding how power surges can damage your electronics provides a basic framework for planning preventive measures to minimize the risk in your home.
    Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Their wingers are the primary source, given Woodman’s preference for formations with a lone striker.
    Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 23 Apr. 2026
  • Recent observations from the James Webb Space Telescope showing bouts of rapid cooling and bursts of mineral formation around baby stars suggest that the same process is occurring elsewhere in the universe.
    Javier Barbuzano, Scientific American, 22 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The collaboration will combine creative vision with access to capital and a long-term strategy for building cinematic worlds that extend across formats and audiences.
    Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Skeptics point out oral exams can be unsettling for students who are shy or have serious anxiety, but clarifying the format ahead of time and starting with softball questions can help, says Carolyn Aslan, who leads Cornell’s oral exam training.
    Jocelyn Gecker, Los Angeles Times, 28 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Friendly and open but naturally quiet, the game is her ultimate form of expression.
    Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2026
  • The desire to be original and authentic, and to use the creative process as a form of discovery and self-expression, largely replaced overt concerns with God.
    Luis Parrales, The Atlantic, 28 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Configuration.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/configuration. Accessed 29 Apr. 2026.

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