Designs
/dɪˈzaɪnz/
Definitions
3 meaningsA plan or drawing produced to show the look and function or workings of a building, garment, or other object before it is made.
/dɪˈzaɪnz/
Plans or drawings
The artist created intricate designs for the mural.
💡 Simply: Think of a design like a set of instructions or a picture that shows how something new will look or work. It's like the idea before you build it!
👶 For kids: A design is like a picture or a plan that shows how to make something.
More Examples
She studied various clothing designs for her project.
The product's success was down to its innovative design.
How It's Used
"The architect presented several designs for the new building."
"The fashion house revealed its new collection of designs."
A purpose or intention in the mind of a person or group; a plan, or scheme.
/dɪˈzaɪnz/
Purpose or intention
She had secret designs to leave the company and start her own.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone has a secret plan or goal. That plan is a design. It's what they're trying to do.
👶 For kids: A design can also be a secret plan or what someone wants to do.
More Examples
The company's designs included expanding into international markets.
The detective uncovered the criminal's devious designs.
How It's Used
"The political party's designs were to win the upcoming election."
"He was aware of her hidden designs."
To decide what something will be like, including how it will work, look, etc., and making a detailed plan for it.
/dɪˈzaɪnz/
To plan something
The architects are designing a sustainable office building.
💡 Simply: When you design something, you're making a plan for how it should look and work. It's like drawing the instructions before you build it!
👶 For kids: To design is to make a plan for something, like a drawing or a blueprint.
More Examples
She designs websites for a living.
They designed a new marketing campaign.
How It's Used
"The engineers are designing a new bridge."
"He is designing a house for a client."
From Middle English *desseinen* (to plan, mark out), from Old French *desseignier* (to designate, mark out), from Latin *designare* (to mark out, devise), from *de-* (away, off) + *signare* (to mark).
The word 'design' has been used for centuries, initially referring to a planned intention or purpose, and later evolved to also describe drawings and plans.
Memory tip
Picture a blueprint for a house or a sketch for a dress; these are designs.