flat design

American  

[flat di-zahyn] / ˈflæt dɪˌzaɪn /

noun

1. a style of digital design marked by flat, simple graphics, usually intended to look minimalist and utilitarian.

   Here’s a good example of flat design making a potentially very complicated UI design look clean and intuitive.

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Etymology

Origin of flat design

First recorded in 2015–20

Example Sentences

Image: Microsoft While Microsoft unveiled impressive 3D emoji and promised they would be part of Windows 11, the company surprisingly reverted to a 2D flat design without explanation.

From The Verge • Jan. 31, 2022

Both of these start at $250,000, and all prototypes, including Sundius and Ichiki’s $225,000 one-bedroom, one-bath Elysian Cottage, exclude additional costs for utility hookups, landscaping, upgrade features and a flat design fee.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 27, 2019

Between the flat design and fun colors, it feels like a Frisbee that plays music.

From Slate • Dec. 18, 2015

Not only is the flat design much harder for an old guy like me to decipher, but, far worse, the latest edition is much heavier-weight than previous ones. 

From Forbes • Jun. 16, 2014

In fact, “intention,” “place,” and “shape” are necessary motives and limits to a flat design.

From Needlework As Art by Alford, Marianne Margaret Compton Cust, Viscountess