blueprint

[bloo-print]

noun

1. a process of photographic printing, printing, used chiefly in copying architectural and mechanical drawings, which produces a white line on a blue background.

2. a print made by this process.

3. a detailed outline or plan of action.

   a blueprint for success.

verb (used with object)

1. to make a blueprint of or for.

blueprint

/ ˈbluːˌprɪnt /

noun

1. Also called: cyanotype. a photographic print of plans, technical drawings, etc, consisting of white lines on a blue background

2. an original plan or prototype that influences subsequent design or practice

   the Montessori method was the blueprint for education in the 1940s

verb

1. (tr) to make a blueprint of (a plan)

Other Word Forms

• blueprinter noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of blueprint¹

First recorded in 1885–90; blue + print

Example Sentences

By that, he means get moving, and keep the blueprints simple.

From Los Angeles Times

Given the bullpen’s continued struggles, that’s likely to be a blueprint the Dodgers will continue to follow in the playoffs.

From Los Angeles Times

When it was unveiled last week, top county officials hailed it as a blueprint for improvements.

From Los Angeles Times

"I do feel like a bit of a trailblazer in the sense that there wasn't a blueprint but now there is," says Amelia.

From BBC

The Dodgers will have to replicate a similar blueprint in the playoffs, needing superb starting pitching, out-of-the-box bullpen management and some intangible connectivity to successfully defend their World Series championship.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• draft 
• game plan 
• master plan 
• model 
• prototype 
• scheme 
• sketch