diagram

American  

[dahy-uh-gram] / ˈdaɪ əˌgræm /

noun

1. a figure, usually consisting of a line drawing, made to accompany and illustrate a geometrical theorem, mathematical demonstration, etc.

2. a drawing or plan that outlines and explains the parts, operation, etc., of something.

   a diagram of an engine.

3. a chart, plan, or scheme.

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verb (used with object)

diagramed, diagrammed, diagraming, diagramming

1. to represent by a diagram; make a diagram of.

diagram British  

/ ˌdaɪəɡrəˈmætɪk, ˈdaɪəˌɡræm /

noun

1. a sketch, outline, or plan demonstrating the form or workings of something

2. maths a pictorial representation of a quantity or of a relationship

   a Venn diagram

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verb

1. to show in or as if in a diagram

Other Word Forms

• diagrammable adjective
• diagrammatic adjective
• diagrammatically adverb
• misdiagrammed adjective
• undiagramed adjective
• undiagrammed adjective

Etymology

Origin of diagram

1610–20; < Latin diagramma < Greek: that which is marked out by lines. See dia-, -gram ¹

Example Sentences

Alongside his own survey of Mont Blanc published in a monumental chromolithograph is his modest diagram of its underlying crystalline structure, as if it were a faceted gem.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 18, 2026

“Sexistential” presents both sides of a modern mother’s Venn diagram, with Robyn gyrating in its overlapping middle, inviting us to her party.

From Salon • Jan. 10, 2026

I probably don’t need to draw you a diagram.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 5, 2026

In one episode, a white board displays an equation and diagram that Zupan said represent how axions are produced in the sun.

From Science Daily • Dec. 28, 2025

They were accustomed to having all the clues neatly laid out on a diagram placed in front of the exhibit.

From "From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" by E.L. Konigsburg