framework
Americannoun
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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.
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a skeletal structure designed to support or enclose something.
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a frame or structure composed of parts fitted and joined together.
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the construction of frames.
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work done in, on, or with a frame.
noun
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a structural plan or basis of a project
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a structure or frame supporting or containing something
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frames collectively
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work such as embroidery or weaving done in or on a frame
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of framework
Explanation
Framework refers to the initial structure of a building. If you ever wanted to walk through walls, you can get your chance when a new house has just the framework done, because the house will have walls with openings for windows and doors but no plaster or siding. From the literal meaning of framework — the initial structure of a building — English added figurative meanings. The noun framework, for example, can be any underlying structure something is built on, so you will see examples like: a framework for solving the problem, a framework for the computer program, and a framework for a new relationship.
Vocabulary lists containing framework
The Scientific Method
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The ACT Science Test: The Scientific Method
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Scientific Investigation and Reasoning
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A “rich life,” in his framework, is one where a person’s finances, relationships and everyday life are intentional, fulfilling and abundant.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 12, 2026
Under a $30 billion framework, all but 70 or so of the nation’s 4,276 lenders would be considered community banks.
From Barron's • Jun. 12, 2026
The strangeness of “Ghost-Eye” will keep readers on their toes, but the book’s earnest, scientific framework makes it seem like an elaborate exercise in wishful thinking.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026
The NDMA's updated guidelines in the wake of the crash acknowledged "Comprehensive Disaster Victim Identification and Management have not received adequate systematic attention in the disaster management framework so far".
From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026
This conceptual framework has proved remarkably stable, even while the scientific knowledge it is used to describe and justify has changed beyond all recognition.
From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
