1
as in plan
a method worked out in advance for achieving some objective
she always achieves her objective by design rather than by luck
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
2
as in scheme
a secret plan for accomplishing evil or unlawful ends
the thief had devised an elaborate design to get the invaluable artwork
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in purpose
something that one hopes or intends to accomplish
my design in writing to you is to ask for your support
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
5
as in layout
the way in which the elements of something (as a work of art) are arranged
the design of the building's lobby encourages the free flow of traffic
Synonyms & Similar Words
1
as in to plan
to have in mind as a purpose or goal
early on she had designed to a top position in a major insurance company
Synonyms & Similar Words
2
as in to prepare
to work out the details of (something) in advance
the foreman designed a better layout for the factory floor to improve efficiency
Synonyms & Similar Words
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 design
Brian Truitt, USA Today, 9 Nov. 2025
Venue and event design After all the planning and anticipation, the big day is here.
—Vanessa Yurkevich, CNN Money, 9 Nov. 2025
Marcia Kramer, CBS News, 6 Jan. 2026
Using mattress encasements designed for bedbugs.
—Dallas Morning News, 6 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for design
Noun
But what's really cool is how the movie brings those story lines together in a narrative filled with intriguing twists, gnarly kills, heroic sacrifices and a slew of nifty new Predator designs.
—Verb
The mayor said the executive order is designed to put businesses that use deceptive practices on notice.
—Recent Examples of Synonyms for design
Noun
-
Dumas has worked for Valero for four years but just moved to the Benicia location from Arizona a year ago, just a few months before the energy company announced a possible plan to cease or idle operations.—
-
The plan is to develop a cost-effective, energy-efficient technology for making innovative plastics based on polybutylene succinate (PBS) which are made entirely out of organic waste.—
Noun
-
Sammis runs a pro-style scheme that prioritizes a strong run game and being efficient with the passing attack.—
-
Williamson, Newsom’s former chief of staff, pleaded not guilty in November in a scheme to enrich her friend Sean McCluskie, a longtime deputy to former Attorney General Xavier Becerra, using money funneled from one of Becerra’s dormant campaign accounts.—
Noun
-
The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only.—
-
The core purpose of Taste Addison – promoting Addison's 200+ restaurants – will be reenvisioned to include new, year-round options to support and elevate North Texas' most vibrant dining hub.—
Noun
-
The rest of the home features a similar color motif.—
-
Playful yet structured, the manicure proves that a timeless motif can still feel fresh and fashion-forward.—
Noun
-
The Kosmera Nebula 1 is a four-door electric concept that leans toward supercar proportions rather than a traditional sedan layout.—
-
Tagle notes these layouts showcase craftsmanship and express design intent, creating a bespoke feel.—
Verb
-
The attack occurred hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy alerted the nation that Russia intended to launch a large-scale offensive.—
-
It is not intended as legal, financial, or professional advice.—
Verb
-
Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui and Chris Williams planned to assist Fincke and Cardman in suiting up and preparing the tools and equipment that would be needed outside the space station.—
-
How to prepare before strong winds approach Trim tree branches away from your house and power lines.—
Noun
-
Or Cenote, the Yucatan Peninsula hole with a massive ramp above the hole that takes different strategies depending on the pin location.—
-
Bond said the Hoosier Lottery would adopt the strategies other states employ, such as cross-promoting digital and retail tickets.—
Cite this Entry
“Design.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/design. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share