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 There, the Tennessee track was positioned as an elimination race in the old postseason format. Jordan Bianchi, New York Times, 30 July 2026 On the Sunday night of The Odyssey‘s opening weekend, Paul Dergarabedian managed to get tickets to a 70mm showing at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre—a packed house, the format filmmaker Christopher Nolan had insisted the film be seen in. Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 30 July 2026 The Big Ten is pushing for a 24-team approach to replace the current 12-team format. ABC News, 30 July 2026 Large-format digital displays in high-dwell locations deliver concentrated attention that fragmented feeds cannot match, now measurable with more of the rigor buyers expect from digital advertising. Denys Kanel, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for format
Recent Examples of Synonyms for format
Noun
  • But finishing first and second in the model’s inaugural appearance confirmed the engineering brilliance of the 250 P’s mid-engine layout.
    Howard Walker, Robb Report, 31 July 2026
  • The converted building with its red brick facade is favored for its large windows, multi-level layouts, outdoor terraces and ceilings that reach up to 25 feet.
    R. Daniel Foster, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
Noun
  • Out of hundreds of entries around the world, the park’s design won first-place in the World Landscape Architecture Awards public design concept category.
    Noah Daly July 31, Idaho Statesman, 31 July 2026
  • From a 1924 Neo-basque house to design-forward flats with scenic balconies, add the seven Airbnbs below to your Biarritz bucket list.
    Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 31 July 2026
Noun
  • Along with discovering sulfur crystals, shiny meteorites and other unusual rock formations, Curiosity has made some of its biggest discoveries about ancient Mars, the space agency said.
    Paloma Chavez, PEOPLE, 31 July 2026
  • The legislation led to the formation of local agencies that are responsible for halting chronic declines in groundwater levels, including by imposing pumping limits and fees.
    Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 31 July 2026
Noun
  • That figure has barely moved in three years of consecutive DDI surveys, across periods when the composition of work itself has changed significantly.
    Cindy Rodriguez Constable, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • In some ways, with the current composition of the roster, Niko stands as somewhat of a swing player.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 1 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Leaked reports suggest a release date of September 25, 2026, with early access on September 18 for Ultimate Edition and EA Play subscribers, aligning with past franchise patterns.
    Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
  • As for a souvenir to take home, try the colorful Basotho blanket, which comes in vibrant colors and patterns that also pop up in local garments and are creatively integrated into various skiing jackets and gear.
    ABC News, ABC News, 21 July 2026
Noun
  • The underlying theme here is that as AI implementation becomes more widespread, and as the technology keeps getting better, transparency, trust, and credibility are of the utmost importance.
    Rachel Wells, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026
  • The theme here is Chicago’s elite defense and the organization’s confidence in its ability to look beyond the surface-level statistics.
    Patrick Mooney, New York Times, 2 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Format.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/format. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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