setting

[set-ing]

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that sets.

2. the surroundings or environment of anything.

   The garden was a perfect setting for the house.

3. the mounting in which a jewel is set.

4. a group of all the articles, as of china, silver, or glass, required for setting a table or a single place at a table.

5. the locale or period in which the action of a novel, play, film, etc., takes place.

   The setting of this story is Verona in the 15th century.

6. Also called stage setting. Also called stage set. the scenery and other properties used in a dramatic performance.

7. Music.

   1. a piece of music composed for certain words.

   2. a piece of music composed for a particular medium, or arranged for other than the original medium.

setting

/ ˈsɛtɪŋ /

noun

1. the surroundings in which something is set; scene

2. the scenery, properties, or background, used to create the location for a stage play, film, etc

3. music a composition consisting of a certain text and music provided or arranged for it

4. the metal mounting and surround of a gem

   diamonds in an antique gold setting

5. the tableware, cutlery, etc, for a single place at table

6. any of a series of points on a scale or dial that can be selected to control the level as of temperature, speed, etc, at which a machine functions

7. a clutch of eggs in a bird's nest, esp a clutch of hen's eggs

Other Word Forms

• nonsetting adjective
• unsetting adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of setting¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; Middle English; set, -ing ¹

Synonym Study

See environment.

Example Sentences

This year, on her third attempt, she secured victory - setting her on course to become Japan's first female prime minister once parliament confirms her appointment.

From BBC

There will be big announcements over the next few days setting out Badenoch's position "and it will be the job of MPs and councils and everyone to go and sell that message".

From BBC

The Live Nation-produced event at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center was booked as a compendium of cutting-edge composers to showcase their film work in an unorthodox live setting.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite the film’s eerie setting filled with slanting shadows, splattered blood and furtive movements darting just out of frame, Indy provides a visual oasis – thanks to a warm golden coat accented with white markings.

From Salon

In setting out to establish his own style, Safdie just mimics another.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ambience 
• backdrop 
• context 
• environment 
• framework 
• locale 
• location 
• site 
• surroundings