setout

1 of 2

noun

set·​out ˈset-ˌau̇t How to pronounce setout (audio)

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 fullS. 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

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
In his new book, A Few Words in Defense of Our Country: The Biography of Randy Newman, Robert Hilburn, a former pop-music critic for the Los Angeles Times, set out to come to terms with Newman’s life and work. David Hajdu, The Atlantic, 23 Oct. 2024 Aside from solving many challenges that e-commerce ventures face, such solutions can increase customers’ engagement and create a comfortable experience that sets out successful businesses from competitors. Serge Guzenko, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 Jeff Bezos didn’t set out to disrupt the retail world overnight. Chloe Berger, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2024 After stumbling upon the manuscript, Stephen sets out to ruin Catherine in turn. Inkoo Kang, The New Yorker, 20 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for setout 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'setout.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of setout was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near setout

Cite this Entry

“Setout.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/setout. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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
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