Definition of formatnext
1
as in layout
the way in which something is sized, arranged, or organized the book's format is very user-friendly

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2
as in design
the way in which the elements of something (as a work of art) are arranged this abstract painter bases the format of his works on color and its subtle gradations and not line or form

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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 format In two years under that format, the selection committee has not admitted an at-large team with more than two regular-season losses. David Eckert, Austin American Statesman, 10 Feb. 2026 The format allowed civil service employees to respond to each other and like comments that resonated with them. William Melhado, Sacbee.com, 10 Feb. 2026 The 2026 Winter Games were the Olympic debut of the new format. Becky Sullivan, NPR, 10 Feb. 2026 Each Participant also acknowledges that many ideas or stories may be competitive with, similar or identical to the Submission and/or each other in theme, idea, format or other respects. Time, 10 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for format
Recent Examples of Synonyms for format
Noun
  • Fabulous layout, symmetry Once inside, a sense of careful preservation and living history is palpable.
    David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 7 Feb. 2026
  • Some in the modern stable blocks have duplex layouts and private patios.
    Lydia Bell, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • According to the news release, there is a design gradient on the livery that’s a repeat of a Cadillac chevron, giving a nod to General Motors’ co-ownership and Cadillac’s symbol.
    Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 9 Feb. 2026
  • Naturally, Ann's Super Bowl jacket is also a custom design, this time by designer Kristin Juszczyk, who shared a video of the sketch to her own Instagram.
    Kathleen Walsh, Glamour, 9 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Flinders Chase National Park, which covers almost a third of Kangaroos Island, protects those animals and stunning geological formations, including the famous Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch.
    Elizabeth Rhodes, Travel + Leisure, 4 Feb. 2026
  • Clean the gutters regularly and install double layers of ice and water barriers to prevent ice dam formation.
    Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Like anything physical, a star’s physical properties are primarily determined by its composition.
    Big Think, Big Think, 6 Feb. 2026
  • When it’s accompanied by a musical composition, launched alongside a blockbuster film, or inspired by your favorite literary heroine.
    Sophia Panych, Allure, 6 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The Austrian, who finished second at the Yanqing World Cup in China in 2024, has trained as a neuromental coach, focusing on rewiring thought patterns and mindset.
    Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 9 Feb. 2026
  • Across the experiments, the sensor network was consistently effective at producing distinct signal patterns and activating protective responses depending on the force applied.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 8 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The summit’s overall theme was the breakdown of American healthcare and how the industry needs to be disrupted and rebuilt from the ground up.
    Annie Levin, Washington Post, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Emerging from a stormy period in Sutkowski’s life, III’s blend of emo, slowcore, and folk works great as a cathartic emotional exercise thanks to its visceral themes and weighty sound, even though the record seldom adds anything new to an ever-evolving emo canon.
    Billie Bugara, Pitchfork, 10 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Format.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/format. Accessed 12 Feb. 2026.

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