n.

1. the act of working out the form of something (as by making a sketch or outline or plan);
   designing
   
   • he contributed to the design of a new instrument
2. an arrangement scheme;
   plan
   
   • the awkward design of the keyboard made operation difficult
   • it was an excellent design for living
   • a plan for seating guests
3. something intended as a guide for making something else;
   blueprint, pattern
   
   • a blueprint for a house
   • a pattern for a skirt
4. a decorative or artistic work;
   pattern, figure
   
   • the coach had a design on the doors
5. an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions;
   purpose, intent, intention, aim
   
   • his intent was to provide a new translation
   • good intentions are not enough
   • it was created with the conscious aim of answering immediate needs
   • he made no secret of his designs
6. a preliminary sketch indicating the plan for something
   
   • the design of a building
7. the creation of something in the mind;
   invention, innovation, excogitation, conception

v.

1. make or work out a plan for; devise;
   plan, project, contrive
   
   • They contrived to murder their boss
   • design a new sales strategy
   • plan an attack
2. design something for a specific role or purpose or effect
   
   • This room is not designed for work
3. create the design for; create or execute in an artistic or highly skilled manner
   
   • Chanel designed the famous suit
4. make a design of; plan out in systematic, often graphic form;
   plan
   
   • design a better mousetrap
   • plan the new wing of the museum
5. create designs
   
   • Dupont designs for the house of Chanel
6. conceive or fashion in the mind; invent
   
   • She designed a good excuse for not attending classes that day
7. intend or have as a purpose
   
   • She designed to go far in the world of business