format

Pluralformats

Formsformats, formatting, formatted

1. 1
   nouncountable

   The way something is arranged or presented.

   Like setting a table: the same meal can be served in many different ways.

   The TV show changed its format to include live audience questions.

   We picked a simple format for the school newsletter.

   Similarstructure, arrangement, setup, layout, style

2. 2
   nouncountable

   The way a book, page, or document is laid out.

   Like a floor plan that shows where each room goes.

   The new magazine format made the recipes easy to follow.

   She changed the format of her report to fit two columns.

   Similarlayout, design, arrangement, style

   Note
3. 3
   verbtransitive

   To set up how a document looks on the page.

   Like arranging furniture in a room so everything looks neat.

   Please format the essay with double spacing before you hand it in.

   He spent an hour learning to format his résumé.

   Similararrange, style, design, structure, organize

   Note
4. 4
   verbtransitive

   To wipe a disk or drive clean and get it ready to store new files.

   Like clearing a whiteboard completely so you can start writing again.

   Remember to format the USB stick before you copy the photos.

   He had to format the old hard drive to clear the viruses.

   Similarinitialize, wipe, erase

   Note
5. 5
   nouncountable

   The kind of computer file, shown by how its data is saved and which programs can open it.

   Like different kinds of containers (a jar, a can, a box) each holds things in its own way.

   Save the picture in a format that your phone can open.

   PNG is a popular format for images with sharp edges.

   Similartype

   Note
6. 6
   verbtransitive

   To change a document so it fits on a different size or shape of page.

   Like folding a big map so it fits in your pocket.

   She had to format the flyer to fit a smaller page.

   Format the letter for legal-size paper before printing it.

   Similaradjust, adapt, resize, fit

7. 7
   nouncountable

   The kind of programs a radio station plays, such as music, news, or sports.

   Like a TV channel that only shows sports or only shows cartoons.

   The station switched its format from rock to country last year.

   Listeners complained when their favorite station changed its format.

   Note

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