framework

[freym-wurk]

noun

1. a basic structure, plan, or system, as of concepts, values, customs, or rules: The empire foundered, leaving its people in anarchy and lawlessness, as the framework of their society and culture collapsed around them.

   The bill, if passed, will provide a legal framework for privacy and data protection.

   The empire foundered, leaving its people in anarchy and lawlessness, as the framework of their society and culture collapsed around them.

2. a skeletal structure designed to support or enclose something.

3. a frame or structure composed of parts fitted and joined together.

4. the construction of frames.

5. work done in, on, or with a frame.

framework

/ ˈfreɪmˌwɜːk /

noun

1. a structural plan or basis of a project

2. a structure or frame supporting or containing something

3. frames collectively

4. work such as embroidery or weaving done in or on a frame

Other Word Forms

• underframework noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of framework¹

First recorded in 1635–45; frame + work

Example Sentences

Early years safeguarding consultant Sharon Birch, of Safeguarding Network, said it was "absolutely brilliant" that the statutory framework was changed.

Read more on BBC

Since then, American and Ukrainian negotiators have been working on changes to the proposals – and are set to continue talks about the "peace framework".

Read more on BBC

“With our clear strategic focus, our revised risk appetite framework, and overall strengthened risk function and processes, we are now entirely aligned around our core wealth management proposition,” Chief Executive Stefan Bollinger said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The 50-year-old agreement is considered a key framework for protecting the world's most endangered animals and plants, and regulates trade in some 36,000 species.

Read more on Barron's

"The reading carries heightened importance following the postponement of October's personal consumption expenditures report, originally scheduled for 26 November, which removes a key datapoint from policymakers' assessment framework," wrote IG market analyst Fabien Yip.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• groundwork 
• plan 
• scheme 
• structure